The report provides an in-depth analysis of the investment landscape in select African countries and identifies the differences between male and female-owned businesses. The findings show that women-led businesses have limited access to funding compared to their male counterparts. This disparity is particularly evident in key industries across Africa. The report highlights the importance of bridging this gap to ensure that women possess the required skills to attract investment and sustain their businesses well after they launch.
Barriers to Investment for Women-led Businesses:
The report assesses the barriers women face with investment and analyzes responses from key stakeholders on their experience with limited access to funds. The report finds that the barriers to investment for women-led businesses are numerous and varied. Some of the barriers include a lack of collateral, limited financial management skills, cultural biases, and limited access to networks.
Initiatives Supporting Women-led Businesses:
The report identifies the current initiatives supporting women-led businesses. These initiatives are aimed at providing women with the required skills to attract investment and sustain their businesses well after they launch. The report highlights the importance of these initiatives and their contribution to economic development and growth.
Impact of Women-led Businesses:
The report highlights the impact women-led businesses have contributed to economic development and growth as well as the potential impact to be gained when more investments are provided to these businesses. The report provides evidence that women-led businesses have the potential to drive economic growth and contribute to poverty reduction.
Outcome
The report highlighted the importance of supporting women-led businesses and their contribution to economic development and growth. The team is currently working on policy recommendations for private and public institutions to improve investment in Women-led businesses and drive positive change.