Existing evidence highlights the influence that institutions have on the behaviours of their target clients, including aspects such as decision-making, codes of conduct, and traditions. In the context of Islamic microfinance, while some studies have analysed the role of certain operational dynamics within institutions in promoting participation, there is still a notable gap in research regarding how the institutions’ structure impacts participation. This is particularly important because Islamic microfinance plays a significant role in promoting empowerment, especially among women, who in many countries still face barriers to accessing finance. Using the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation (PLS-SEM) method, this study analyses the influence structures of Islamic microfinance institutions have on the participatory behaviour of women. The findings prove first that target audience, shariah principles and regulatory provisions are adequate constructs to measure the institutional structures of Islamic microfinance institutions. Secondly, institutional structure, attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioural control positively influence women’s participatory behaviour in Islamic microfinance. Lastly, recommendations were provided for policymakers and industry stakeholders to enhance practices aimed at improving the participation of women.