Learning from Growth-Oriented Women Entrepreneurs: A Study of Women Entrepreneurs of Karachi

Abstract

Purpose: Women contribute to economic growth. Changing global sociocultural conditions have increased interest in women's entrepreneurship research. Despite this trend, women entrepreneurs are still misunderstood, and the literature portrays them and their ventures as disadvantaged. This study presents a change in the methodology of studying women entrepreneurs by using a phenomenological research design and portraiture study on three growth-oriented women entrepreneurs. The paper describes how growth-oriented women entrepreneurs improved their knowledge, skills, and abilities and used growth enablers to start and grow their businesses. Methodology: This qualitative phenomenological study explains growth-oriented women entrepreneurs in Karachi. Karachi and women's offices were researched. In this study, women entrepreneurs met these criteria: (1) These Karachi businesswomen started their business from scratch; (2) They had been in business for at least three years to measure growth; and (4) They were willing to participate in interviews, observations, and artefacts gathering. Findings: The results of the study were summarized in five themes: (1) Women’s Entrepreneurial Experience; (2) Women’s Perception of Entrepreneurial Characteristics; (3) Women’s entrepreneurial learning; (4) Women’s entrepreneurial reflections on gender; (5) Women’s Entrepreneurial Self as Knower. Conclusion: The study's findings can be used to develop a model for aspiring or struggling women entrepreneurs. Future research and policy implications are also discussed.