The Impact of Social Capital on Rural Women's Entrepreneurship with Emphasis on Handicrafts (Case Study: Lashar District, Nikshahr County)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Geography and Rural Planning, Faculty of Geography and Environmental Planning, University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan, Iran.

2 Economic -Social Research Department, Sistan and Baluchestan Agricultural and Natural Resources Research Center, Zabol, Iran.

Abstract

The development of rural women’s entrepreneurship is recognized as an effective tool for reducing unemployment and poverty, strengthening rural identity, and minimizing urban migration. In this context, social capital, particularly in the area of handicrafts, plays a key role in enhancing rural women’s entrepreneurship. Supporting these industries can create job opportunities and accelerate economic development in rural areas. This study aims to investigate social capital and its impact on rural women’s entrepreneurship, with an emphasis on handicrafts, in the Lashar District using a descriptive-analytical method. The statistical population of this research consisted of active entrepreneurial women in the Lashar District of Nikshahr County. Data were collected using a researcher-designed questionnaire, which was validated with a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.85 and expert opinions. The results indicated that psychological characteristics (factor loading of 10.56) and social participation had the most significant impact. Social capital accounted for 42.6% of the variation in entrepreneurship. Strengthening participation, trust, and financial support contributes to the development of entrepreneurship. Handicrafts, particularly "Perivardoozi," were identified as the most significant activity for women. The study concluded that the most important factors in the development of entrepreneurship in the Lashar District were psychological traits such as willpower, perseverance, and experience. Educational, infrastructural, and financial support can enhance women’s empowerment and accelerate sustainable rural development. This research provides practical recommendations for policymakers and planners in the field of rural entrepreneurship.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Education and Management of Entrepreneurship
Volume 3, Issue 3 - Serial Number 8
December 2024
Pages 49-68

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History

  • Receive Date: 30 June 2024
  • Revise Date: 15 November 2024
  • Accept Date: 15 November 2024

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