Entrepreneurial Strategy and Growth Trajectory of Women-Owned Businesses in Anambra State

This study explores the relationship between entrepreneurial strategy and the growth trajectory of women-owned businesses in Anambra State, Nigeria. Located in the South East geopolitical zone, Anambra is recognized for its vibrant entrepreneurial culture, and women entrepreneurs constitute a significant segment of the state's informal and formal business landscape. The research adopts a descriptive survey design targeting female business owners registered with the Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare. A total of 90 respondents from Onitsha, Nnewi, and Awka were selected using stratified random sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and focus group discussions. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression. Findings reveal that women-owned businesses pursuing network-based entrepreneurial strategies, including market associations and cooperative savings groups, record higher growth rates than those relying solely on individual strategic efforts. Access to microfinance, business training, and mentorship programs are identified as critical enablers of strategic effectiveness. The study finds that sociocultural constraints related to mobility and decision-making autonomy moderate the relationship between entrepreneurial strategy and business growth. The research concludes that targeted policy interventions are needed to unlock the full strategic potential of women entrepreneurs in Anambra. Keywords: entrepreneurial strategy, women-owned businesses, business growth, Anambra State, microfinance.