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@article{189417,
        author = {Dr. Swapna O and Dr. Anup Arjunan Bahuleyan and Reshma S},
        title = {Role of SHGs and Microfinance in Empowering Women Entrepreneurs},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2025},
        volume = {12},
        number = {7},
        pages = {5475-5481},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=189417},
        abstract = {Women entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in promoting inclusive economic growth and gender equality, especially in developing economies like India. However, women entrepreneurs often face financial, social, and institutional barriers that limit their entrepreneurial potential. In this context, Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and microfinance institutions have emerged as important mechanisms for empowering women by improving access to credit, fostering entrepreneurial opportunities, and enhancing socio-economic capabilities. This study examines the role of SHGs and microfinance in facilitating access to financial resources and analyzes their impact on the economic, social, and decision-making empowerment of women entrepreneurs. The findings reveal that SHG participation and microfinance support significantly enhance women’s income levels, financial independence, entrepreneurial skills, and confidence in decision-making. The study also highlights the positive influence of SHGs in promoting leadership, social participation, and community engagement among women entrepreneurs. Despite these benefits, gaps in market linkage and enterprise scalability remain. The study concludes that strengthening SHG-based microfinance initiatives can further enhance women entrepreneurship and contribute to sustainable and inclusive development.},
        keywords = {Women Entrepreneurship; Self-Help Groups (SHGs); Microfinance; Women Empowerment; Financial Inclusion},
        month = {December},
        }