Unveiling the Triumphs of Empowered Women Entrepreneurs on Financial Inclusions

This study explores the role of financial inclusion in empowering women entrepreneurs in Sorsogon City, Philippines, amid global gender disparities in the labor force. It aims to bridge the gender gap in financial inclusion, a key aspect of the Philippine government's strategy for achieving equality, sustainable development, and enhanced quality of life. Employing a descriptive mixed-method approach, combining quantitative and qualitative research designs, the study focuses on 12 women entrepreneurs in Sorsogon City. Data collection methods include surveys, open-ended questionnaires, and observation, with frequency count and percentage used for quantitative analysis and thematic categorization for qualitative data. The research reveals a diverse profile of women entrepreneurs based on age, business type, years in business, occupation, partner's occupation, and educational background. It uncovers the lived experiences of these entrepreneurs, highlighting categories such as access to financial resources, support networks, empowerment impacts, economic and social effects, and personal and professional development. Further research is needed to understand the determinants of financial inclusion among women-owned enterprises and address the structural economic gaps that expose women and their businesses. Efforts to increase access to and use of financial services by women entrepreneurs, women business owners, and independent professionals, in addition to quality financial education, may be essential to protect their financial health and increase their economic participation.