Unveiling the path to sustainable poverty alleviation in Pakistan: Investigating the role of microfinance interventions in empowering women entrepreneurs

Abstract

Unsustainability and the menace of poverty are the major challenges confronted by developing countries like Pakistan. This study intends to highlight the impact of microfinance interventions on women entrepreneurs in Pakistan and their potential to foster women's entrepreneurial ambition as a means of poverty alleviation. A quantitative research design has been used to collect data through a questionnaire from 400 women entrepreneurs who have benefited from the National Rural Support Program (NRSP)’s, (2019–2021) Microfinance and Enterprise Development Program in Pakistan. The study found that the concept of microfinance resources is gaining significance and its access is significantly impacting the entrepreneurial inclination and success of women entrepreneur’s vis a vis reduces poverty levels in low-income communities. The findings have significant implications for policymakers, microfinance institutions and women entrepreneurs in Pakistan, emphasizing the need for programs that target women entrepreneurs and provide them with microfinance resources and training to empower them to take charge of their businesses. Limited generalizability and self-reported data are the limitations to mention. Strategies like offering microfinance were found to be valuable tool in combating poverty and inequality from the women entrepreneurial initiatives perspective.