Impact of Microfinance Credit on Women Entrepreneurship Development in Taraba State

This study examines the impact of microfinance credit on women entrepreneurship development in Taraba State, located in Nigeria's North East geopolitical zone. Women entrepreneurs in rural and semi-urban areas of Taraba State face significant financial exclusion challenges, limiting their capacity to scale businesses and contribute to household and community economic wellbeing. This research uses a descriptive survey design with primary data collected from 120 women entrepreneurs who accessed microfinance credit in the past three years. Questionnaires and focus group discussions were employed, with data analysed using frequency tables and regression analysis. The study assesses the influence of credit access, loan adequacy, and repayment terms on business capitalisation, expansion, employment generation, and income growth. Findings reveal that microfinance credit access positively and significantly influences business capitalisation and income levels among women entrepreneurs, particularly in food processing, textile trading, and hair salon businesses. However, high interest rates and short repayment windows were identified as constraints that limit the developmental impact of credit on business expansion. The study recommends that microfinance institutions in Taraba State review interest rate structures, introduce business development training as part of credit packages, and design flexible repayment schedules that account for the seasonal income patterns of rural women entrepreneurs. Keywords: microfinance credit, women entrepreneurship, business development, Taraba State, financial inclusion.