The article titled “Female Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Economy and Development—Challenges, Drivers, and Suggested Policies for Resource-Rich Countries“, co-authored by Dr. İbrahim ARI, a faculty member of our University’s Computer Engineering Department, was published in Sustainability journal.
In the study, ARI noted that women’s entrepreneurship plays a critical role in ensuring sustainable development not only economically but also in social and environmental dimensions. He also underlined that although women are seen as excellent and relentless protectors of their families, environments and society, in many countries, especially in resource-rich and developing countries, there are very limited opportunities for using women’s power at the highest level. In this context, the study aimed to improve the economic diversity of Qatar, which is very rich in hydrocarbon-based resources, and to present the policies necessary for sustainable development by creating a more socially vibrant environment. In the article, a holistic strategic model was developed, primarily using design and systems thinking approaches, to alleviate obstacles and limitations to women’s entrepreneurship, such as gender inequalities, and to sustain economic development with the help of women. Secondly, based on this conceptual model, an integrated policy framework was proposed to promote women’s entrepreneurship and increase their participation in economic diversification to achieve sustainable development. Third, a survey was conducted to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed policy framework. The results revealed that aspiring female entrepreneurs surveyed believe that the proposed policies of providing more local training and mentoring programs, as well as subsidies and funding from the government, remain valid. Moreover, although female participants agreed that entrepreneurial practices should comply with local and cultural traditions, it was concluded that spreading awareness about their social and economic contributions to society and moral support are an additional need. Finally, the findings showed that many female participants, mostly Qatari citizens, were willing to become both entrepreneurs and investors to partner with other women and help fund other initiatives to contribute to the overall sustainability of female employment.