Breaking Barriers: How Women Entrepreneurs Are Thriving in the Online Business World

For decades, entrepreneurship was often seen as a male-dominated arena, but the digital revolution is rewriting that narrative. More women than ever are starting businesses, and many are choosing online platforms to do so. Why? Because the internet offers what traditional business models often lack—flexibility, accessibility, and low startup costs.

A study by Lakshmi Priya and Dr. Smilee Bose at St. Peter’s Institute of Higher Education and Research (2020) explores this transformation, examining the motivations behind women-led online businesses, the challenges they face, and the key factors that contribute to their success. The research highlights that online business is not just about financial gain—it’s about empowerment. Women are leveraging digital tools to carve out spaces where they can be financially independent, balance personal and professional commitments, and bring innovative ideas to life.

From fashion e-commerce and home-cooked meal delivery to ed-tech startups and digital marketing consultancies, women entrepreneurs are proving that a good idea, paired with the right digital strategy, can lead to thriving businesses. However, the journey isn’t without hurdles—competition, technical barriers, and time constraints remain significant challenges.

Let’s dive into the key takeaways from the study and explore what’s driving this wave of online entrepreneurship among women.

Why Women Are Choosing Online Entrepreneurship

Historically, women entered entrepreneurship out of necessity—whether due to financial struggles, job dissatisfaction, or life circumstances. However, today’s digital-driven world presents new motivations: independence, passion, innovation, and the ability to balance business with personal life.

According to the study, the key motivators for women entering the online business space include:

1. Freedom & Flexibility – The ability to set their own schedules and work from home.

2. Family Support – Many women credit their families for encouraging them to pursue their business dreams.

3. Business Knowledge & Education – Women with undergraduate and postgraduate degrees are leveraging their skills to launch ventures.

4. Time-Saving & Low Investment – Unlike traditional brick-and-mortar businesses, online businesses require less capital and can be managed efficiently.

5. Global Reach – The internet allows businesses to connect with customers worldwide without geographical limitations.

Success Stories: Women Who Built Thriving Online Businesses

The study highlights inspiring women who turned their ideas into successful online ventures:

• Falguni Nayar (Nykaa) – Built a multi-billion-dollar beauty and fashion empire.

• Suchita Salwan (Little Black Book) – Created a content-driven platform that connects users with local businesses.

• Pranshu Bhandari (Culture Alley) – Founded an innovative online language learning platform.

• Aditi Gupta (Menstrupedia) – Revolutionized menstrual health education through digital content.

These entrepreneurs prove that online business isn’t just about selling products—it’s about solving problems, offering value, and building brands that resonate with people.

Challenges Women Entrepreneurs Face in Online Business

While online business offers incredible opportunities, it’s not without hurdles. The research found that women entrepreneurs commonly struggle with:

1. Competition – A saturated market makes standing out difficult.

2. Technical Barriers – Many women feel they lack the necessary digital skills.

3. Marketing & Visibility – Reaching the right audience requires strategic promotion.

4. Security Concerns – Online transactions come with risks like fraud and data theft.

5. Time Management – Balancing business, family, and personal life remains a challenge.

6. Financial Constraints – Many women face difficulties securing funding or initial capital.

   
   

Interestingly, the study found that younger women (aged 20–30) were more likely to start an online business, while older women (40+) faced greater barriers due to technical and financial constraints.

How This Research Can Help Solopreneurs

If you're a solopreneur looking to break into the online business world, here’s how you can apply these insights:

• Leverage Flexibility – Choose a business model that fits your lifestyle. E-commerce, freelancing, or digital coaching can be great low-investment options.

• Build a Support System – Whether it’s family, mentors, or online communities, having a network of support can boost confidence and business success.

• Invest in Digital Skills – Take online courses on marketing, social media, and e-commerce platforms to gain a competitive edge.

• Start Small, Scale Smart – Begin with a niche audience, test your products or services, and expand based on feedback.

How Small Business Owners Can Benefit

For small business owners, the research offers valuable lessons on how to attract and support women entrepreneurs in the online space:

• Offer Flexible Work Models – Remote work opportunities or part-time roles can attract talented women looking for career flexibility.

• Provide Mentorship & Training – Investing in digital upskilling programs can help female employees and entrepreneurs build confidence in tech-driven businesses.

• Collaborate with Women-Led Businesses – Partnering with women entrepreneurs in your industry can open new market opportunities.

• Enhance Online Presence – With growing competition, focusing on SEO, targeted advertising, and brand storytelling can set your business apart.

The future of online entrepreneurship is bright, and women are playing a crucial role in driving innovation, creating jobs, and reshaping industries.

If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, now is the time to take the leap. The tools, opportunities, and success stories are all there—you just have to start.

Reference: G. Lakshmi Priya & S. Smilee Bose (2020). A Study on Online Women Entrepreneur. International Journal of Management, 11(12), 1095-1110. DOI: 10.34218/IJM.11.12.2020.100