Abstract:
Every aspect of the world is changing rapidly; political and economic transformations seem to arise
every nock and corner in the world. Countries tend to demand their economies; dictatorships convert
into democracy while creating new institutions and agencies. Due to the changes in economic pathways
for women, those who intend to start and operate their own businesses. When women gradually start
their own businesses with a view to contribute a large portion in national economy, the unique skills of
women entrepreneurs are yet to recognize. In this context, this research examined women's
entrepreneurial characteristics in Sri Lanka mainly based on the environmental factors. The case study
focused the VIDATHA program which initiated by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Research in
mid-2000. This study aimed to investigate the effect of environmental factors on women
entrepreneurial characteristics in Western Province, Sri Lanka. The result of this analytical study
indicated that there are similarities and differences in experiences of women entrepreneurs in Sri
Lanka and women entrepreneurs were able to run their businesses and reached successes, despite the
work-family conflicts. The outcome of the women’s engagement in business proved that the support for
service of the companies and competitiveness are significantly correlated with the environmental
factor which main source for availability of funding for development of women entrepreneurship. The
factors influence women to be at risks of businesses could easily be improved through the activities of
business support services, followed by independence, self-confidence and internal locus of control. The
business support service is the main factor influenced the development of female entrepreneurship.
Competitiveness and government policies were given a negative impact on developments of women
entrepreneurship.
