Entrepreneurial Capabilities of Women Entrepreneurs and Their Contributions to Entrepreneurship Development

ABSTRACT: Women play significant roles in entrepreneurship development in the country, particularly in the province of Camarines Norte. This study determined the entrepreneurial capabilities of women entrepreneurs and their contributions to entrepreneurship development in Camarines Norte. It employed a descriptive method of research in assessing the profile of women entrepreneurs; their entrepreneurial capabilities along identifying business opportunities, running a business, driving innovation and adapting to economic conditions; their contributions to entrepreneurship development and the problems commonly encountered by them. Findings revealed that respondents mostly were 41 to 50 years old age bracket, married, with a baccalaureate degree, have been running the business for five to ten years as a small-type of enterprise, with an initial capital of ₱100,000 and below, and employed five and below employees. The entrepreneurial capabilities of women entrepreneurs were interpreted as much capable of identifying business opportunities, running a business, driving innovation, and adapting to economic conditions. The contributions of women entrepreneurs to entrepreneurship development were interpreted as much evident in terms of income generation, job creation, innovation, and environment protection. Also, the most common problem encountered by women entrepreneurs is business competition. Given the results of the study, a proposed training design was developed to help women entrepreneurs strengthen their entrepreneurial capabilities