A Comparative Analysis of Policy Frameworks in Overcoming Institutional Bias Against Women-Led Sustainable Enterprises

This study analytically compared the effectiveness of policy intervention frameworks in addressing institutional bias against women-led sustainable enterprises. Using institutional theory, comparison was made by employing qualitative content analysis from policy documents and policy briefs from select policy intervention frameworks across select countries and regions in the Global South, such as PMMY (India), NIECD (South Africa), and AFAWA (Sub-Saharan Africa) along with case-studies from Germany, Spain, India and Sub-Saharan African nations (Uganda, Kenya, Senegal). The findings of this study reveal institutional bias against women-led sustainable enterprises which operates across regulatory, normative, and cognitive domains. These insights will serve as a guide for policymakers and international development agencies to create stronger, evidence-based interventions that connect gender equality with sustainable development goals.