Background of the Study
Women-focused policies are designed to address gender inequalities and empower women through economic, social, and political interventions. In Nigeria, these policies often target areas such as education, health, financial inclusion, and entrepreneurship. Specifically, policies aimed at promoting women’s involvement in small-scale enterprises can have significant implications for poverty alleviation, job creation, and overall community development (Usman & Yakubu, 2023). Jalingo Local Government Area in Taraba State has witnessed various policy initiatives to support women entrepreneurs, including microcredit programs, capacity-building workshops, and policies that improve women’s access to resources.
Despite these efforts, challenges persist in ensuring the effectiveness and reach of these policies. Factors such as limited access to credit, inadequate infrastructure, and traditional gender biases continue to hinder the growth of women-owned businesses in the area. This study aims to evaluate the impact of women-focused policies on the growth of small-scale enterprises in Jalingo, focusing on how these policies affect women’s business performance, sustainability, and overall empowerment.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
While women-focused policies have been designed to empower women entrepreneurs and foster the growth of small-scale businesses in Jalingo, there is limited evidence on their effectiveness in achieving these goals. Many women entrepreneurs continue to face significant barriers, including financial constraints, limited access to markets, and social norms that restrict their entrepreneurial activities. This study seeks to evaluate the impact of these policies on small-scale enterprise growth in Jalingo, determining whether the intended benefits of these initiatives have been realized.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
To evaluate the impact of women-focused policies on the growth and sustainability of small-scale businesses in Jalingo.
To assess the effectiveness of microcredit and financial inclusion programs in supporting women entrepreneurs in Jalingo.
To explore the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs despite the implementation of women-focused policies in Jalingo.
1.4 Research Questions
How have women-focused policies impacted the growth of small-scale businesses in Jalingo?
To what extent have microcredit and financial inclusion programs supported women entrepreneurs in Jalingo?
What challenges do women entrepreneurs face in Jalingo despite the implementation of women-focused policies?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
Women-focused policies have positively impacted the growth and sustainability of small-scale businesses in Jalingo.
Microcredit and financial inclusion programs have significantly contributed to the growth of women-owned businesses in Jalingo.
Despite policy interventions, women entrepreneurs in Jalingo continue to face significant challenges that hinder business growth.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is significant in understanding the effectiveness of women-focused policies in promoting small-scale enterprises in Jalingo. The findings will provide insights into the successes and limitations of these policies and offer recommendations for enhancing their impact. The study will be useful for policymakers, development organizations, and advocacy groups working to improve the economic empowerment of women through entrepreneurship.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on Jalingo Local Government Area in Taraba State and evaluates women-focused policies over the past five years. The research will not extend to other areas of the state or to broader national policies. Limitations include the reliance on self-reported data from women entrepreneurs, which may introduce biases or inaccuracies.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Women-Focused Policies: Government policies that are specifically designed to address the needs and challenges faced by women, particularly in the areas of economic empowerment and entrepreneurship.
Small-Scale Enterprises: Businesses with limited capital investment, typically run by individuals or small teams, that produce goods or provide services on a local scale.
Microcredit: Small loans provided to individuals or businesses who are unable to access traditional banking services, often aimed at supporting entrepreneurs in low-income communities
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study...
ABSTRACT
One of the syntactic problems is the problem of linguistic interference which is the inability to separate the...
Background of the Study
Digital transformation has emerged as a catalyst for improving risk assessment processes in busines...
Background of the Study
Smart home technology refers to the integration of devices and systems that allow users to contr...
Background of the Study
The e-commerce industry has experienced significant growth, driven by the demand for fast and re...
INTRODUCTION
Currently, all work associated with the admission of students is performed manually using ink and paper, wh...
Background of the Study
Sleep disturbances, particularly insomnia, are common among ol...
Background of the study
The Coronavirus (Covid-19) is a contagious sickness that causes respiratory inf...
ABSTRACT
This research project intends to explore the Ethical and social responsibilities of the Purcha...
The term "pidgin" is used to describe a...