Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/324296 
Year of Publication: 
2025
Series/Report no.: 
IZA Policy Paper No. 217
Publisher: 
Institute of Labor Economics (IZA), Bonn
Abstract: 
Skills gaps, a lack of funding, and social norms continue to keep women and youth in North Africa from engaging in productive entrepreneurship. Using cross-national data and regional indicators from the World Bank and the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, this analysis shows how such barriers reinforce each other, leading to the structural exclusion of women and youth. For example, only 1.2% of Egyptian women are business owners, and young people in Tunisia have a significantly lower chance than adults of obtaining business loans. The report estimates that if gender gaps in networks and skills are addressed, up to 7 million more female entrepreneurs could be established in North Africa. Progress requires targeted education, the use of inclusive finance tools, and shifts in public opinion. When supported by policies, the entrepreneurship of women and young people can boost resilience and create job-rich growth.
Subjects: 
entrepreneurship
North Africa
gender and youth economic empowerment
financial inclusion
skills development
social norms
JEL: 
L26
J16
J18
O17
Document Type: 
Working Paper

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