Abstract

BARSOUM, Miray. Crisis to empowerment: Exploring the impact of COVID-19 on the financial inclusion of women entrepreneurs in Egypt. JCMAN [online]. 2025, vol.22, n.1, pp.1-30. ISSN 1815-7440.  https://doi.org/10.35683/jcm23.048.284.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: The aim of this study was to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the financial inclusion of women entrepreneurs in Egypt and offer valuable insights to enhance it. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: This study employed a qualitative research design, using a phenomenological approach, to explore the experiences of women entrepreneurs in Egypt during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodological triangulation was utilised, combining literature review, interviews, and expert insights, ensuring credibility and reliability. A purposeful sampling technique was employed, conducting 30 in-depth interviews with women entrepreneurs and experts. The collected data were transcribed, coded, and analysed to identify key research themes using MAX QDA Software. FINDINGS: COVID-19 has brought about a dual effect on women in entrepreneurship in Egypt. On the one hand, it has presented opportunities to enhance financial inclusion through the increased adoption of fintech services, accelerated digital transformation, improved digital financial literacy, stimulated business innovation, and government and ecosystem support measures. On the other hand, it has posed challenges by amplifying preexisting gender biases, widening the digital divide, revealing limited digital and financial literacy among women, and exposing the rigidity of the Egyptian financial sector. RECOMMENDATIONS/VALUE: A novel conceptual framework was formulated, aiming to offer valuable guidance to governments, policymakers, and support organisations. By leveraging the identified opportunities and addressing the identified challenges, this framework provides a roadmap to enhance the financial inclusion of women entrepreneurs not only in Egypt but also in other developing countries. MANAGERIAL IMPLICATIONS: This study calls for targeted policies, financial products, and capacity-building programs to enhance financial inclusion and support women entrepreneurs in Egypt. Stakeholders can leverage these insights to create a more inclusive and resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem. JEL CLASSIFICATION: E02, E26, G20, H12, L26, M13, N27, 033, 053, 043

Keywords : COVID-19; developing economies; digital divide; digital transformation; egyptian women entrepreneurs; financial inclusion; fintech; gender bias; innovation in business; women in entrepreneurship.

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