Access Impediments and Digital Platforms: Insights into Enhancing Financial Services for Ethiopian Women Entrepreneurs in Urban Settings

This study explores the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in accessing financial services in urban Ethiopia. Qualitative research methods were employed, including semi-structured interviews with 30 female entrepreneurs from diverse urban areas of Ethiopia. Data collection was conducted through online surveys and focus group discussions among key stakeholders like banks and NGOs. Digital platforms showed promise in overcoming geographical barriers by providing remote financial services; however, only a minority (25%) of surveyed women used these platforms. Despite the potential benefits, digital financial services for Ethiopian women entrepreneurs are currently underutilized due to various factors including technological illiteracy and perceived risks. Policy makers should prioritise education campaigns on digital financial literacy and reduce transaction costs to encourage wider adoption of digital platforms by women entrepreneurs. digital finance, gender inequality, urban entrepreneurship, access barriers