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This study aims to identify and understand the challenges, motivational factors and future needs of female entrepreneurs in Ankara, Turkey.

The study uses the qualitative analysis methodology and uses the qualitative data analysis software, MAXQDA 11. A total of 41 randomly selected female entrepreneurs from the city of Ankara and rural areas of the Ankara region participated in semi-structured in-depth interviews. A total of 284 codes were defined.

Results indicate that female entrepreneurs are mostly intrinsically motivated and are driven by the desire to achieve and to become independent. The socially constructed role of women in Turkey is the primary challenge faced by female entrepreneurs in both urban and rural areas. Moreover, the major future needs identified for female entrepreneurs are support from public institutions and access to managerial consultants.

There are limited number of studies that closely examine the characteristics of female entrepreneurship activity and their challenges/motivations in Turkey. This research contributes to the existing literature through its qualitative nature and by highlighting differences in urban and rural female entrepreneurs. Moreover, the results of this study are useful for policy makers to evaluate the future needs of female entrepreneurs and the programs that will be needed to overcome the challenges facing female entrepreneurs in the entrepreneurial process.