Empowering resilience: navigating challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in Taiwan amidst COVID-19

This study investigates the challenges faced by Taiwanese women entrepreneurs during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as their emotional responses and the strategies they employed to cope with these challenges. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected through structured interviews with 50 women entrepreneurs and analyzed using thematic analysis, framed by social cognitive theory and the resource-based view. Findings Seven major challenges were identified: financial instability, government policies and restrictions, disruptions to business operations, supply chain disruptions, communication issues with clients, difficulties in complying with health and safety measures and workforce disruption. The emotional responses ranged from feelings of helplessness and frustration to resilience and hope, which in turn informed the adoption of various adaptive strategies. Research limitations/implications The small sample size of 50 participants limits the generalizability of the findings. Additionally, qualitative research relies on the researchers' interpretation of data, which may introduce subjectivity and bias. Practical implications The lessons learned from women entrepreneurs during the COVID-19 pandemic highlight the resilience, adaptability and innovative strategies employed by women entrepreneurs during challenging times. Originality/value The findings highlight the resilience and innovative capabilities of women entrepreneurs in crisis contexts and underscore the need for tailored support mechanisms, including financial assistance, digital literacy training and mental health resources. Policy recommendations emphasize the importance of gender-sensitive policies and simplified regulatory procedures. The findings also contribute to advancing scholarship on gender equality (SDG 5) and decent work and economic growth (SDG 8).