Technology Adoption Intention and Sustainable Entrepreneurship Ability of Rural Women in Bangladesh

Abstract

The expansion of women entrepreneurs in Bangladesh is essential for economic development, primarily driven by the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). This expansion is more noticeable in urban areas, generating a research gap to find out the adoption of ICT among rural women entrepreneurs. Our present study seeks to identify the factors influencing ICT adoption intentions among women entrepreneurs in rural Bangladesh. Data from 315 respondents were collected and analyzed utilizing partial least squares-structural equation modeling through Smart PLS 3.3v software. Our results reveal that women's utilization of ICT is positively associated with their access to material, mental, skill, usage, and ICT in microfinance. This adoption significantly upgrades the business skills of rural Bangladeshi women, offering essential insights for future entrepreneurs. Our study provides a comprehensive framework for assessing ICT adoption access points and offers policymakers' practical implications for empowering women by expanding ICT access to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 5.