Spiritual Capital in Supporting Women’s Sustainable Entrepreneurship in the Creative Economy of the Tourism Sector

The creative economy is a vital industry supporting the national economy, with tourism being closely related. Sustainable tourism can have significant multiplier effects on tourist attractions, hotels, villages, cuisine, and events. The tourism sector has garnered considerable attention, with studies exploring various economic and non-economic motives of involved parties. Within the framework of sustainable livelihoods, capital plays a crucial role in supporting activities during crises and changes. Different types of capital, such as natural, physical, human, economic, social, and spiritual, are recognized. Spiritual capital, linked to enthusiasm and satisfaction reserves, is essential for sustainable tourism. This study aims to examine the role of spiritual capital in driving sustainable tourism in Indonesia’s key destination, Lake Toba. The research utilizing qualitative phenomenological, grounded theory, and action research designs. The result shows that this research reveals that spiritual capital has a significant role in supporting the success and sustainability of women’s businesses in the tourism creative economy sector. Women entrepreneurs in this sector, who have strong spiritual capital, tend to be more empowered, have high mental resilience, and are able to overcome challenges that arise in their business. This creates a positive impact on the growth of their businesses as well as their contribution to the local economy and sustainable development.