Factor investigation leading to the development of women agrotourism entrepreneurship in Greece

Abstract

The modern demands of the globalized economy have led to a mobilization of the local female population, with the aim of developing entrepreneurial activities, both in the secondary and tertiary sector of the economy. The development of entrepreneurial activities by women in rural areas is a newly-emerging phenomenon that constitutes a driving force for local growth, by combating unemployment among women and reinforcing women’s activities through agricultural policy measures. This paper is based on research carried out within the framework of the project co-funded by the European Social Fund and National Resources – EPEAEK II – ARCHIMIDIS, and concerns a sample of 203 women’s agro-tourism companies or cooperatives functioning all over Greece. It examines the relation between the corporate form of the agro-tourism enterprises and the monthly income gained, as well as the various funding programmes, their relation with the initial capital invested, and the final value of the investment. After studying the above-mentioned associations, conclusions are reached pertaining to the form and growth of women’s entrepreneurship as regards agro-tourism activities.