Challenges and Prospect of Women Business Start Up in North Western Nigeria

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the personality and environmental challenges and prospects faced by women in business start-ups in North Western Nigeria. A total of 273 female entrepreneurs were surveyed using a structured questionnaire. The data collected were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The study found that lack of access to funding sources, legal and regulatory barriers, societal and cultural biases, lack of access to relevant information and technology and limited access to professional networks and mentors were the major environmental challenges faced by women in business start-ups. The study further revealed that women possess the confidence to take risks and pursue opportunities, handle stress and uncertainty, possess the ability to adapt to changing circumstances, communicate and negotiate with stakeholders, and possess the persistence and resilience necessary to overcome challenges in their business start-ups. The study recommends that the government, private organizations, and other stakeholders should work together to address the environmental challenges faced by women in business start-ups in North Western Nigeria by providing access to funding sources, mentorship, networking opportunities, and creating an enabling business environment.