Decoding the financial health of women-owned microbusinesses, India

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Decoding the financial health of women-owned microbusinesses, India

by MSC
Oct 11, 2024
1 min

The report aims to unpack the concept of financial health specifically in the context of wMBs. It does so by starting to look at the drivers that influence the growth and resilience of wMBs and forms a framework to identify a financially healthy wMB. The report is informed by insights from the ground – women entrepreneurs themselves, Enterprise Support Organizations and Financial Institutions.

The ‘Decoding the Financial Health of women-owned microbusinesses in India’ initiative was launched to address the unique vulnerabilities of women-led microenterprises, especially in the aftermath of economic shocks such as the pandemic. MSC, in collaboration with Sa-Dhan, conducted a pioneering study on the financial health of women-owned microbusinesses (wMBs) in India.

The project involved extensive research, including secondary analysis, expert consultations, and primary data collection, to develop a comprehensive financial health framework for wMBs. The framework defines key dimensions, parameters, and indicators that assess and improve financial health outcomes for women entrepreneurs.

MSC led the study’s design and execution to ensure a robust and evidence-based approach to financial health assessment for wMBs. The team conducted Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with supply-side stakeholders, held brainstorming workshops with industry experts, and engaged Enterprise Support Organizations (ESOs) and government bodies to refine the framework. The study resulted in a structured methodology for measuring financial health, providing actionable insights for key ecosystem players.

The study delivered a first-of-its-kind financial health framework and checklist, offering practical financial and non-financial tools for stakeholders—including funders, financial institutions, ESOs, and policymakers—to assess and enhance the financial well-being of women-owned micro businesses. It also contributed to the broader financial health discourse in India by bridging research gaps and strengthening the understanding of how ecosystem actors perceive and influence wMB financial health.

J.P. Morgan Chase & Co. commissioned this project.