ResearchNext International Multidisciplinary Journal

Women empowerment is increasingly recognized as a critical driver of inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development, particularly in developing countries. Among various pathways to empowerment, textile entrepreneurship has emerged as a significant mechanism for enhancing women’s economic independence, skill development, and social participation. This paper examines the role of textile entrepreneurship in empowering women by synthesizing theoretical perspectives, empirical evidence, and case studies from diverse regions including South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Drawing on existing literature and documented experiences from countries such as Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, and India, the study explores how engagement in textile-related activities such as weaving, tailoring, embroidery, and garment production enables women to generate income, acquire technical and managerial skills, and strengthen their decision-making capacity within households and communities. The analysis highlights key mechanisms of empowerment, including economic security, creative agency, and enhanced social capital, while also identifying persistent barriers such as limited access to finance, education, markets, and supportive legal frameworks. Furthermore, the paper discusses the role of policy interventions, microfinance, womenspecific entrepreneurship programs, cooperatives, and digital technologies in promoting inclusive and sustainable textile enterprises. The findings suggest that textile entrepreneurship not only contributes to poverty reduction and livelihood security but also fosters long-term empowerment by improving women’s autonomy, confidence, and societal status. The study concludes with policy recommendations aimed at strengthening institutional support systems and expanding opportunities for women-led textile enterprises as a strategic pathway to gender equality and sustainable development.