08/09/2026
🌸 Women in the Informal Economy
From Starting a Business to Growing a Business
For many women in the informal economy, starting a small business is already an act of courage.
But starting is not the same as growing.
A woman may have the skills, the product, and the determination—but still struggle to expand her business because of barriers that are often beyond her control.
🔹 Limited access to affordable finance
🔹 Lack of information and business knowledge
🔹 Limited access to technology and digital platforms
🔹 Difficulty reaching better and wider markets
🔹 Unpaid care and household responsibilities
🔹 Limited mobility and safe transportation
🔹 Lack of networks, mentorship, and institutional support
🔹 Fear and complexity around formalization
So, when we ask, “Why is her business still small?”, we should also ask:
“What barriers are keeping her from growing?”
Women do not only need opportunities to start earning. They need an enabling environment to grow, sustain, and benefit from their work.
🌱 A truly inclusive economy is one where women are not only participants—but are able to progress.