Unleashing the potential: a bibliometric analysis of growth-oriented women entrepreneurship

PurposeThis study scrutinizes the evolution of thematic directions in the domain of growth-oriented women entrepreneurship research over the past two decades. Furthermore, it explores the implications of this evolution for future research and practical endeavors.Design/methodology/approachThe authors conduct a bibliometric analysis of 741 publications from 2004 to 2023. The analysis first examines publication numbers and identifies important journals and articles based on performance analysis. Moreover, using science mapping techniques, the study provides four thematic maps organized into five-year periods, as well as a Sankey diagram.FindingsThe analysis reveals a significant surge in research activity, particularly since 2014, in terms of both the quantity and diversity of themes. The findings show that in 2004-2008, six themes were driving the research domain, but in 2019-2023, the number of themes increased to 24. Moreover, this study offers a holistic perspective on prospective research directions, emphasizing two key themes: emerging economies and sustainability.Originality/valueThis study makes an important contribution by bringing together scholarship on women entrepreneurs and growth-oriented ventures. These themes can be a significant factor in stimulating new approaches to economic growth when considered together. Moreover, this study emphasizes the need for a more diverse and inclusive research environment.