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Breaking Barriers for Women and Young Entrepreneurs in North Africa: Skills, Finance, and Social Norms

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  • Brixiova Schwidrowski, Zuzana

    (United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA))

  • Elbeshbishi, Amal Nagah

    (United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA))

  • Zhao, Jiaxin

    (United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA))

Abstract

Skills gaps, a lack of funding, and social norms continue to keep women and youth in North Africa from engaging in productive entrepreneurship. Using cross-national data and regional indicators from the World Bank and the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, this analysis shows how such barriers reinforce each other, leading to the structural exclusion of women and youth. For example, only 1.2% of Egyptian women are business owners, and young people in Tunisia have a significantly lower chance than adults of obtaining business loans. The report estimates that if gender gaps in networks and skills are addressed, up to 7 million more female entrepreneurs could be established in North Africa. Progress requires targeted education, the use of inclusive finance tools, and shifts in public opinion. When supported by policies, the entrepreneurship of women and young people can boost resilience and create job-rich growth.

Suggested Citation

  • Brixiova Schwidrowski, Zuzana & Elbeshbishi, Amal Nagah & Zhao, Jiaxin, 2025. "Breaking Barriers for Women and Young Entrepreneurs in North Africa: Skills, Finance, and Social Norms," IZA Policy Papers 217, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izapps:pp217
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • L26 - Industrial Organization - - Firm Objectives, Organization, and Behavior - - - Entrepreneurship
    • J16 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Gender; Non-labor Discrimination
    • J18 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Public Policy
    • O17 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Formal and Informal Sectors; Shadow Economy; Institutional Arrangements

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