Chapter 2: Empowering Women in Tech Entrepreneurship: A Conceptual Education Model for Inclusive Economic Growth

This chapter proposes a forward-thinking educational framework designed to empower women in technology entrepreneurship through inclusive and motivation-centred learning experiences. Drawing on Self-Determination Theory and adapted from the Education for Entrepreneurial Action model, the conceptual approach presented here focuses on fostering autonomy, competence and relatedness, three psychological drivers essential to entrepreneurial success and growth. The model is designed to be both adaptable and scalable, making it a valuable tool for higher education institutions and training programmes to address gender disparities in tech entrepreneurship. Through a qualitative, multi-case research methodology, the chapter explores successful initiatives in diverse European contexts, which include Portugal, Central Europe and the United Kingdom, that integrate entrepreneurial education into STEM fields. These cases showcase effective methods in mentoring, hybrid learning and inclusive teaching. The model also supports important Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as Quality Education (SDG 4), Gender Equality (SDG 5), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8) and Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10). By encouraging women’s involvement in innovation ecosystems, the proposed framework helps with both personal empowerment and inclusive economic growth, as well as educational transformation.