Problems and Opportunities of Women Entrepreneurship in Char Areas of Bangladesh

The study was conducted to have an overview of the existing condition of women entrepreneurs in climate vulnerable char area in line with their problems and prospects. The analysis was based on primary data collected through personal interviews spread over a period of three months in four districts namely Bogura, Sirajgong, Ghaibandha and Rangpur of Bangladesh which have a significant area of char land. A set of questionnaires were prepared to conduct the field survey. The results revealed that women entrepreneurship in char area is an important tool to improve livelihood, empowerment and economic independency of many women. Indeed, women in char areas are engaged in different types of enterprises of which some are agro-based (poultry and cattle rearing, seed business and organic fertilizer business) and some are nonfarm based (boutique house, handicrafts, grocery and tailoring). Fertile and virgin soil with isolation distance is the most common opportunity for agricultural seed business in char areas. Huge cattle population in char areas is another organic manure business in chars. Most of the cases showed that women entrepreneurs selected their enterprises with what they were familiar and started their business with own savings followed by borrowing money from parents or husband or relatives. The study clearly indicated that lack of capital; communication and transportation are still the main problem of women entrepreneurs in char area. The other major problems include absence of marketing facilities, lack of chances for skill development training and different family issues. Family conflict and negative attitude of society also important barrier to start up a business. Another common barrier faced by the women entrepreneurs is balancing time between the enterprise and the family duty or responsibilities. This study conveys the message that if the char land women are provided with appropriate training, motivation and need-based financial and related assistance, they will enter into the entrepreneurial occupation in a large number and will prove their worth to contribute to the economy of Bangladesh. Both the government organizations and private sector should contribute to promote entrepreneurship development for women in the char area of Bangladesh where a great opportunity is waiting.