Factors Affecting Growth Of Small Scale Women Entrepreneurs: A Case Study Of Mutindwa Market In Nairobi County

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to find out the factors that influence growth of women entrepreneurs in Mutindwa market.Methodology: Descriptive survey design was used to conduct the study. The target population was 200 women entrepreneurs who own small business at Mutindwa Market. This study employed stratified random sampling to select 60 women entrepreneurs. Questionnaire was used as the data collection instrument. Questionnaires were self administered where drop and pick later method was applied. Descriptive analysis was done using frequency distribution tables, Mean, Standard deviation and Variance analysis (ANOVA). Inferential statistics that was utilized included regression analysis using Standard Package for Statistical Sciences (SPSS). Presentation of findings was in form of tabular and graphical form.Results: Findings indicated that women attended various seminars and workshops which improved their business management skills and knowledge for betterment and growth of business. Socio- cultural factors was a key determinant of growth of women entrepreneurs, their family and parental responsibilities take much of women's time which deny them enough time to focus on their businesses, access to finance had great influence on growth of women entrepreneurs. Women entrepreneurs belonged to various support groups and chamas that assisted in growth of their business through empowerment.Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The study recommended that there is a need for development of women-tailored products. Financial institutions should be encouraged to develop new products and services to target women entrepreneurs taking into account the strengths and weaknesses of women borrowers. A targeted package of asset financing and/or lease hire facilities, for instance, would minimize the diversion of funds from non-business needs - a common problem among women borrowers.