In developing countries with market economies, small-scale enterprises are a growing part of rural nonfarm economic activity. Women's participation in rural small-scale enterprises is gaining increased recognition. Despite the increased interest in rural women's small-scale enterprise activity, little attention has been directed toward the spatial dimensions that may constrain or encourage women's enterprises. This doctoral dissertation research will investigate the impact of isolation from principal market centers on the establishment and management of small-scale enterprises by women in Kenya. Adjustments that women make in managing small-scale enterprises as they attempt to meet their obligations as providers for their families through a combination of many different productive activities may be related to their carrying out business transactions in more isolated markets, such as periodic markets, or in village-level markets. The project will use questionnaires administered to women entrepreneurs in rural districts. Responses will provide a database for testing hypotheses that examine differences in the operations of women's small-scale enterprises in association with more isolated and less sophisticated rural markets. By addressing influences of spatial isolation on women's economic development, the project will add an innovative empirical and theoretical study to the growing body of geographical research on development-related issues. It will provide information to assist in the formulation of specific policy plans for enhancing the more complete participation of women in rural development. The project also will provide an excellent opportunity for a promising young scholar to continue to develop independent research skills.
