Greenpreneurship: Women at the Helm of Sustainable Business Models in Nepal

Abstract

This paper investigates women in green entrepreneurship as they contribute to viable business models and socio-economic development. Greenpreneurship is entrepreneurship that integrates the consideration of such elements as a healthy environment, social inclusivity and sound economy. As new age sustainopreneurs, women entrepreneurs are increasingly being regarded as the catalysts of sustainable change who innovate and rely on societal values to build businesses that correspond to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Based on a review of literature, cases and comparative experiences, this paper outlines women’s motivations, challenges and opportunities in green entrepreneurship focusing on identifying barriers and enablers in Nepal. Results indicate that green women entrepreneurs are crucial in promoting inclusive and sustainable growth, however women-led green enterprises face systemic constraints including limited access to finance, gender discrimination and market restraints limiting their scalability. This research also compares the Nepali context with successful cases from developed countries, highlighting significant gaps in access to capital, supportive institutional frameworks, and established global market channels. The recommendations focus on financial support, incubation programs and greater awareness to strengthen women’s participation in sustainable business environment and this awareness must be generated in both gender not only in women so that males can also support this women in such sustainability. The study aims to contribute academic insights for policymakers, financial institutions, and development agencies regarding how to build sustainable and scalable green businesses in Nepal.