PhD project in Supporting Women Micro-Business Owners Engaged in Traditional Art, Fashion, and Design Industries in South Asia

Overview

South Asian countries, including India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, and Pakistan, are rich in cultural heritage and have long histories of traditional and sustainable business practices, many of which are deeply embedded in their social and cultural fabric, art, and design. Likewise, women in South Asian countries contribute significantly to their economies by

engaging in family-heritage traditional industries, including textile weaving, pottery, handicrafts, and small-scale agriculture-based products, which are often passed down through generations. Women play a crucial role in sustaining these practices. However, these women micro-business owners encounter many challenges due to social, cultural, and economic barriers that hinder their full entrepreneurial potential. Despite their significant contributions, they often face limited access to financial resources, restricted mobility, and societal norms that undervalue their work. These obstacles prevent them from scaling their businesses, accessing the global market, and fully realizing their capabilities as entrepreneurs.

On the other hand, there is a growing demand for sustainable art, fashion, and design products in the international market, especially in developed countries such as the UK and the USA. Consumers in these regions are willing to pay higher prices for products that are ethically made and environmentally friendly. This trend presents a significant opportunity for women micro-business owners in South Asia to expand their market reach and increase their income by aligning their traditional crafts with sustainable practices.

Therefore, this qualitative research aims to explore how women micro-business owners in South Asian countries can be supported by combining traditional skills with modern innovation to enhance productivity and market reach. We would expect the study to adopt an ethnographic strategy, such as Participatory Action Research to develop and implement successful approaches to the provision of support, leading to increased income generation from aligning their traditional crafts with sustainable practices. Supporting these women not only preserves cultural heritage but potentially supports hundreds of thousands of women and children, providing economic stability and empowerment within their communities.

This research will contribute to the academic discourse on sustainability and business practices, providing valuable insights for policymakers, business leaders, and academics. It aims to support South Asian countries in their journey towards sustainable development while preserving their rich culture. Additionally, it will benefit consumers in the international market by providing sustainable and ethical products at reasonable prices, thus contributing to the global business landscape.