Aligning Identity, Faith, and Entrepreneurship: Experiences of Muslim Women Entrepreneurs in India

Abstract

Muslim women are increasingly venturing into niche culture-based business markets and establishing faith-oriented enterprises, selling modest wear, halal beauty products, and alcohol-free perfumes, along with engaging in non-traditional entrepreneurial activities such as opening a café, home bakery, and so on. Their motivations for venturing into entrepreneurship are a combination of economic needs, desire for upward social mobility, social acceptance of entrepreneurship as a desirable economic activity for Muslim women, and commitment to contribute to the development of their community. In the context of economic discrimination in everyday life in India, this essay builds upon the narratives of five Muslim women to explore the influence of social institutions, such as religion, on women’s entrepreneurial initiatives. By recognizing the form and uniqueness of entrepreneurial conduct at the intersection of faith and gender identity, the essay sheds light on the practice of entrepreneurship among Muslim women. This exploration challenges and alters the popular and majoritarian narratives on the practice and process of entrepreneurship.

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