Empowering women in business: a systematic review of key factors and leadership pathways

Romero-Goicochea E.P.; Arevalo-Becerra S.D.; Cordova-Buiza F. · Social Sciences and Humanities Open (2026) · DOI: 10.1016/j.ssaho.2026.102692

Resumen

This study addresses the challenge of empowering women in the business world, an essential issue for promoting gender equality and stimulating economic growth. Although women are increasingly assuming leadership positions, significant barriers remain that limit their professional development. The objective of this article is to examine women's empowerment in the business context by identifying effective practices and strategies that contribute to business and leadership success, based on scientific literature published between 2018 and 2024. A systematic review was conducted using the PRISMA methodology. Data were collected exclusively from Scopus, focusing on articles in English that explicitly address women's empowerment in the business world. Of the 1423 articles initially identified, 30 met the strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. The results reveal that 56% of the selected studies adopt qualitative approaches, 27% use quantitative methods, and 17% employ mixed methodologies. Geographically, India tops the list with 20% of the studies, followed by the United Kingdom and the Netherlands (13% each). The results underscore that women's empowerment is a multifaceted phenomenon involving not only access to financial resources, but also decision-making power and leadership in male-dominated sectors. Ultimately, women's empowerment contributes not only to individual progress, but also to broader social and economic development. Future research should prioritize quantitative studies and continue to explore how digital tools can expand women's entrepreneurial opportunities.

Instituciones: Universidad Privada del Norte