Unlocking Finances in Zambia: A woman entrepreneur’s guide

According to the 2021 World Bank Report, Zambian women entrepreneurs own more than one-third of the country’s small businesses and more than 40% of its microenterprises. Despite their pivotal role in the Zambian economy, women encounter a disproportionate number of obstacles in accessing financial services, hampering their economic potential and the progression of gender equity.

In response, this guide was created as a tool for women entrepreneurs to navigate the Zambian financial landscape, identify suitable funding options and narrow the gender finance gap. Drawing on interviews with policymakers, financial institutions, business experts and other key stakeholders, Unlocking Finance in Zambia: A woman entrepreneur’s guide offers practical tips for women entrepreneurs to secure funding. It also provides information to funders interested in adopting a gender-lens approach to finance.