Resilience and confidence in entrepreneurial self-efficacy: Evidence from rural women entrepreneurs in Oman

This study examines the psychological and institutional determinants of entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) among rural women entrepreneurs in Oman, using a cross-sectional survey of 190 respondents analysed through Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). The findings show that resilience is the strongest predictor of ESE and also mediates the relationship between confidence in business decisions and ESE. Confidence itself has a positive direct effect, highlighting the importance of internal psychological resources in shaping entrepreneurial capability. In contrast, social support, institutional support, and perceived business skills mastery show no significant direct influence, pointing to persistent structural gaps and the limited reach of formal and informal support mechanisms in rural settings. By demonstrating the central role of resilience and decision-making confidence under institutional voids, the study extends Bandura's Self-Efficacy Theory to a rural, gendered context. Practical implications include designing resilience-building and confidence-enhancing training programmes and developing policies that address the structural constraints faced by rural women entrepreneurs. The study contributes to global debates on women's entrepreneurship in underserved regions and offers insights for inclusive rural development. • Rural women entrepreneurs in Oman contribute significantly to local economic development and community resilience. • Resilience and decision-making confidence are the strongest psychological drivers of entrepreneurial self-efficacy in resource-constrained rural settings. • Institutional and social support show limited influence on self-efficacy, underscoring persistent structural barriers in rural entrepreneurial ecosystems. • Strengthening psychological capabilities is essential for advancing women's entrepreneurship and supporting Oman's Vision 2040 goals on inclusive growth. • Tailored policy interventions that address rural realities can enhance entrepreneurial ecosystems and promote more equitable regional development.