Abstract
This study proposes an integrated strategy to address food insecurity by empowering rural women entrepreneurs through the adoption of solar-drying technology. Rural farmers in Bangladesh frequently experience unstable prices and seasonal food shortages due to insufficient storage, limited transportation facilities, and post-harvest wastage. While sun drying is cost-effective, it often results in contamination, insect infestation, and inconsistent drying, leading to a loss of nutritional value. Solar drying ensures more efficient and reliable food preservation. This study applies the principles of social business to examine how women use solar drying to create sustainable micro-enterprises. The proposed model integrates capacity building, financial access, and market linkages to enhance women’s entrepreneurial skills. This study examines the connections among women’s entrepreneurship, renewable energy, and food security through an extensive literature review. The findings indicate that women’s food preservation businesses generate income and employment, boost household nutrition, enhance climate resilience, and foster inclusive rural development. By embedding solar drying technology into food entrepreneurship and women’s economic participation, this research supports sustainable food systems aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. The study gives practical advice for leaders, development practitioners, and social business creators seeking to design fair, climateready, and sustainable food security interventions.
Keywords: Food Security, Renewable Energy, Social Business Model, Sustainable Development Goals, Women Entrepreneurship.