Female Entrepreneurship in Peru 2010-2023

Abstract

This article analyses the conditions of female entrepreneurship in Peru during the period 2010 to 2023 through an exploratory study with a qualitative and quantitative approach, supported by a documentary review of statistical data reported by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM), the National Institute of Statistics and Informatics (INEI) and more than 50 relevant scientific sources. Based on the background information, which indicates that, despite the increase in the participation of Peruvian women in the creation of micro-businesses, the rate of female entrepreneurship is among the lowest in Latin America, the objective of this research focused on identifying the barriers that limit this type of entrepreneurial process. The main findings of the study indicate that 89.6% of Peruvian women entrepreneurs create micro-businesses, they are six times less likely to have access to sources of capital, only 49.5% of Peruvian women are integrated into the financial system and less than 7.4% of women entrepreneurs have a university education. In conclusion, it highlights the need to formulate new inclusive public policies that foster an equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem that eliminates gender stereotypes and socio-cultural barriers, through training programmes with continuous support for both women and men at the time of setting up a business.