DIP: 18.02.S12/20251004 
DOI: 10.25215/2455/1004S12 
Abstract
This study investigated the impact of women’s entrepreneurship on their empowerment in Kolkata, India. Women entrepreneurs in Kolkata, particularly those aged 36–45 years, are making significant progress in establishing and managing their enterprises. Most of these entrepreneurs are married and possess technical education, which is crucial for their entrepreneurial endeavours. This study used both primary and secondary data sources. Primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire and personal interviews with 208 women entrepreneurs using convenience sampling. The findings reveal that factors such as marital status, educational attainment, and training from organizations, such as MSME, significantly influence entrepreneurs’ perceptions of business growth and success potential. Married women entrepreneurs face unique challenges in balancing family responsibilities and business demands. The study also underscores the considerable potential of women-led businesses in job creation, with 53.4% of the survey participants employing between five and ten individuals. These results highlight the need for targeted initiatives and programmes to promote women’s entrepreneurship and foster business growth in Kolkata, West Bengal, India. Policymakers, entrepreneurs, and support organizations can utilize these insights to enhance the overall economic environment of a region through sustained job creation and business development efforts. Recommendations for women entrepreneurs include developing strong time management skills, understanding lending options and financial incentives, and accessing technology and training programs.
The author(s) appreciates all those who participated in the study and helped to facilitate the research process. 
The author(s) declared no conflict of interest. 
ISSN 2455-670X