Women-led Social Entrepreneurship in Fostering SDGs: Myth or Reality? A Phenomenological Perspective

Abstract—The study explores women’s social entrepreneurial approaches that align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, reflecting overall sustainable development in the context of Bangladesh, targeting achievement by 2030. The study adopted a phenomenological approach to reveal the lived experiences of six women social entrepreneurs’ journey towards social entrepreneurship. Protocol analysis, conducted through in-depth interviews, was analyzed through a phenomenological lens. Following Husserl’s epoche (bracketing) and eidetic reduction, it captures the essence (noema) and the act of experiencing (noesis) of underlying entrepreneurial approaches towards the SDGs. The findings of the study demonstrate nine key approaches and their alignment with the SDGs and sustainable development of Bangladesh. By examining lived experiences and interpreting realities, it seeks to provide policymakers with actionable insights to facilitate supportive arrangements for schemes, mentorship, and networking. Additionally, it aims to empower educators to serve findings as learning modules and to engage both national and international development organizations in actively involving social entrepreneurs as key partners in sustainability efforts. Future research endeavors will shed light on men and other supportive organizations, addressing the SDGs within the context of different countries.