The Role of Women Entrepreneurs in the Growth of SMEs in Niger-State, Nigeria.

Women entrepreneurs are central agents in the growth and sustainability of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and are significant contributory factors to economic development in Niger State, Nigeria. The contribution of women entrepreneurs to SME growth is examined in this research, employing the quantitative study method and primary data collection with the assistance of structured questionnaires. 450 respondents were randomly selected via stratified random sampling, while 150 respondents were selected from each of Niger State's three senatorial zones. The study assessed the contribution of women entrepreneurs to business growth, employment generation, and economic empowerment. Results showed that women entrepreneurs have significant contribution to the growth of SMEs by improving business innovation, improving employment opportunities, and building financial stability. In spite of this, constraints to their business success as entrepreneurs involved restricted credit availability, lack of good business education, and socio-cultural conditions. Enhanced financial support, capacity building programs, and pro-female policies that favored participation in SME growth were identified as interventions needing action by the study. Recommendation of the study is that the government, financial institutions, and private organizations join hands to ensure easier access to finance, tailored training programs, and mentorship for women entrepreneurs. Policies for dismantling gender-based barriers and creating an enabling business environment are to be accorded priority. By overcoming these barriers, women-owned SMEs are able to thrive, thereby contributing to Niger State's economic growth.