Green Entrepreneurship Innovation and Women Empowerment in Taraba State.

Abstract:

This study investigates the relationship between green entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment in Taraba State, Nigeria. The specific objectives of this research are to determine the relationships between (i) green process and skill acquisition, (ii) green products and eco-friendly training, (iii) green process and workshops, and (iv) green products and skill acquisition among women entrepreneurs in Taraba State. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from a purposive sample of 97 women entrepreneurs in agriculture, crafts, and small-scale manufacturing sectors. A structured questionnaire, based on a 5-point Likert scale, measured variables including eco-friendly packaging, green products, skill acquisition, and participation in eco-friendly training. Reliability and validity of the instrument were tested using Cronbach’s Alpha and expert review. The analysis involved descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation) and Pearson’s correlation to explore relationships between the variables. The results reveal statistically significant positive correlations: engagement in green process practices correlates with skill acquisition participation (r = 0.532, p < 0.05), while workshops strongly correlate with the adoption of green products (r = 0.817, p < 0.05). A moderate correlation was observed between green process and workshop attendance (r = 0.607, p < 0.05), and green products and skill acquisition is (r = 0.433, p < 0.01), indicating a need for enhanced training on sustainable packaging practices. In conclusion, the study underscores the role of eco-friendly training in driving green entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment in Taraba State, as workshops effectively foster the adoption of eco-friendly practices and green products. To amplify the impact, the study recommends that workshops expand their focus to include sustainable packaging, improve access to eco-friendly resources, facilitate networking among women entrepreneurs, and implement follow-up support programs to ensure the successful adoption of sustainable practices.