Factors that Affect the Performance of Women-Owned Small and Medium Enterprises. Case Study of Dire Dawa City

Book excerpt: Case Study from the year 2024 in the subject Business economics - Investment and Finance, grade: A, , course: Accounting and Finance, language: English, abstract: This study examined the factors that affected the performance of women-owned small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Dire Dawa City. The research employed a qualitative case study approach to gather data from women entrepreneurs operating in the region. The study identified and analyzed key factors that influenced SME performance, including access to finance, entrepreneurial skills, social networks, government support, and market conditions. The findings highlighted the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs, such as limited access to finance and inadequate government support, while emphasizing the positive impact of strong social networks and supportive market conditions. Based on the results, recommendations were provided to enhance the performance of women-owned SMEs, including initiatives to improve access to finance, develop entrepreneurial skills, increase Access of Technology, availability of Infrastructure. The study contributed to the existing literature on women entrepreneurship and provided practical insights for policymakers, stakeholders, and women entrepreneurs in Dire Dawa City, enabling them to create a more supportive environment for the growth and success of women-owned SMEs.