The Role of Institutional Support in Strengthening Women's Entrepreneurship in The Service Economy: Evidence from Emerging Markets

This study examines the institutional support mechanisms for women entrepreneurs in the service sector in developing market economies and their impact on business performance. A multiple regression analysis was conducted based on primary data collected from a total of 1,794 female entrepreneurs from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, and Vietnam during 2022–2024. The results show that a one-unit increase in the institutional support index raises women's entrepreneurial performance by an average of 34.2 percent (β = 0.342, p < 0.001). Access to financial programs (β = 0.342), education and training (β = 0.287), and business infrastructure (β = 0.231) emerged as the strongest predictors of effectiveness. The study is intended for publication in scientific publications accredited by the OAK (Attestation Commission of Uzbekistan) and has practical significance for the development of gender-inclusive economic policy.