Financial literacy of women entrepreneurs in floriculture industry: a case study in Battaramulla and Panadura areas in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Women entrepreneurship has become a debatable topic in today's world. Women no longer adhere to conventional mindset that only men can be income earners in the family. Besides numerous obligations and responsibilities assigned to women, they can find success through their own businesses. Though there are many obstacles confronted by females in the business during past, society have now begun to admit that women entrepreneurs do contribute greatly to a country's economy, Therefore, it is no longer surprising to see women heading their own ventures and being successful at the same time. The study explored current status of financial literacy and financial inclusion of the women entrepreneurs in floriculture industry as many entrepreneurs have failed due to improper financial management. Data was collected by administrating a pre-tested questionnaire to ninety two female entrepreneurs in the floriculture industry. Collected data were then analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient and independent sample t test. Financial literacy of the respondents found to be in the moderate level. Therefore, the authorities should consider about enhancing the financial literacy of women entrepreneurs by conducting knowledge dissemination programs. Study also found that there is no significant correlation between financial literacy and age while financial literacy showed positive significant relationships with education and experience in the business. Majority of the female respondents have used their personal savings to fulfill the initial investments of their businesses while some have obtained credits from formal and informal sources. The results of the study showed that there is no significant difference between the financial literacy of respondents who obtained a loan and who did not obtain a loan.