Gendering microfinance initiatives: effect of microloans on women entrepreneurs in Nicaragua

This research paper evaluates the contributions and/or challenges of microfinance initiatives, specifically, micro loans for women entrepreneurs in Nicaragua, examining the extent to which these initiatives foster financial inclusion, representation, economic resilience and agency. It aims to understand the effectiveness of micro loans and its influence on women’s economic empowerment. This research will be mainly grounded on qualitative data combining testimonies from 14 clients from rural areas, 6 experts on the field, and 1 representative from the microfinance organization MiCredito, as well as support by academic literature. Findings concluded a significant contribution from MFIs on women’s sense of independence, resilience and encouragement to growth both professionally and personal. However, it also highlighted the need of improvement and further representation of women within this service to properly address their needs beyond the credit. These results work as support to further improve microfinance initiatives and target main challenges to ensure effective and real representation of women across institutions within their products.