Role of Digitalization in Shaping the Entrepreneurial Intentions of Women in Pakistan

Abstract

While digitalization has opened doors for entrepreneurs all around the globe, making it easier for people to start their ventures, there exists a lack of knowledge on the influence of digitalization on the entrepreneurial intention of women in Pakistan. Considering the culture of Pakistan, where women do not enjoy the same status as their male counterparts, this study is an attempt to understand whether digitalization covers the gender gap (in entrepreneurial activity) and makes it easier for women to start their ventures. Theory of Planned Behavior (TBP) is used to dig deeper into the behavioral patterns of female digital entrepreneurs for understanding the role of digitalization, a qualitative exploratory study was conducted, where entrepreneurs having a digital IV business were interviewed. A purposive sampling technique was used to locate 20 female digital entrepreneurs who fulfilled a set criterion. Results revealed that digitalization played a significant role in shaping the entrepreneurial intentions amongst female entrepreneurs alongside their passion. Since digitalization made it easier for women to start their ventures remotely, there were no cultural implications for it as well.