Abstract:
This study investigates the relationship between small business startups and women's socio-economic development in Kamonyi District, specifically Bishenyi Trading Centre, from 2021 to 2023. The research aims to evaluate how small business startups contribute to
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women's economic empowerment, examine the role of government policies and support programs, and identify opportunities to enhance the impact of these startups on women's development.
Using a descriptive case study design, the study sampled 75 participants from a population of 290 through simple random sampling. Data were collected via self-administered questionnaires and interviews, and analyzed using SPSS.
The findings reveal a strong correlation between job creation and various aspects of women's socio-economic development. Job creation is notably linked to improving living standards 0.626, providing business knowledge through internships 0.863, enhancing self-reliance 0.782, and supplying capital for small industries 0.882. Access to basic needs is also correlated with business knowledge from internships 0.638, self-reliance 0.593, and capital 0.693. Internships show very high correlations with self-reliance 0.961 and capital provision 0.981, while self-reliance and capital are perfectly correlated 1.000, emphasizing their crucial roles in socio-economic progress.
The Pearson correlation analysis highlights the effectiveness of government programs, particularly in enhancing family support and access to critical resources. Targeted support initiatives, such as the Women’s Enterprise Fund, Business Development Services (BDS), and Incubation Centers, provide essential financial assistance, specialized training, and mentorship. To further support women entrepreneurs, it is recommended that the government expand financial assistance, enhance mentoring, and improve access to technology and market information.
