O PANORAMA DA MULHER EMPREENDEDORA NO ESTADO DE GOIÁS

Abstract

This research aims to investigate the main barriers faced by women entrepreneurs in Goiás and analyze how public policies and private initiatives can be improved to promote gender equality in the business sector and foster the development of female entrepreneurship. The research is qualitative in nature, using document analysis and secondary data from institutions such as SEBRAE-GO, UFG, IBGE, and UNDP. The results indicate significant growth in female entrepreneurship in the state, with a high concentration in the Services (58.8%) and Commerce and Retail (41.2%) sectors, and significant rates in small, tourist-oriented municipalities such as Santo Antônio de Goiás and Alto Paraíso. However, structural challenges persist, notably unequal access to credit, income disparity (approximately 40% lower than that of men), and the burden of domestic responsibilities. It is considered that, despite the advances and the strategic role of women in boosting the local economy, the full consolidation of female entrepreneurship in Goiás depends on strengthening public policies to encourage it, providing continuous training, and creating support networks that effectively promote equal opportunities and the sustainability of businesses led by women.