DETERMINANTS AND GROWTH OF ENTREPRENEUR: FEMALE-OWNED BUSINESS PERSPECTIVES

Abstract

This study uses cross-sectional survey questionnaires and a quantitative research approach to investigate the factors influencing the performance of female entrepreneurs in micro and small companies in South-South, Nigeria. Structured interviews and 5-point Likert scale questionnaires were the procedures utilized to collect the data. The techniques for analyzing data are regression analysis, multiple regression, and the VIF test.  The study included 356 female entrepreneurs as sample members who are engaged in subsistence farming. The VIF test, multiple regression analysis, and regression analysis are the methods for data analysis. The study findings show that education level, financial accessibility, familial ties, and information and networking access impact female-owned enterprises positively. The study's conclusion demonstrates that networking opportunities, access to financing, peaceful family relationships, and entrepreneurial education have a positive effect on female-owned businesses because they enable them to recognize opportunities, exercise sound judgment, comprehend the dynamics and metrics of their industry, maintain accurate financial records, and be aware of the types of loans that are available. This study broadens our understanding of the variables influencing and enhancing the performance of female entrepreneurs operating micro and small enterprises in southern Nigeria.