The Opportunities and Problems of the Marginalised Entrepreneurs on Micro-financing in Calabarzon, Philippines

Abstract

The main objective of the study is to assess the opportunities and problems of the marginalised entrepreneur on micro-financing in Calabarzon, Philippines. This study made use of the descriptive method, using the survey questionnaires intended for the respondents. A total of 400 respondents were involved in this study, which were randomly selected from the active members of the selected NGO micro-finance institutions in Region IV-A (Calabarzon). The greater percentage of respondents within the age range of 29-38 did not have very young children, which would constrain them from participating in productive work. Findings have proven that the Philippines has been lauded globally for the significant strides it has made for micro-finance and financial inclusion. Access to micro-finance significantly contributed to the sustainability of micro-enterprises, and also positively affected those marginalised entrepreneurs; the marginalised entrepreneur respondents were engaged in sustainable micro-entrepreneurship; and marginalised entrepreneurs struggled with their roles in the businessdespitegreat confidence in their own abilities. They strive to expand into new markets, avoiding pitfalls that can come with growth. Marginalised entrepreneurs are not well informed of the credit provisions of micro-finance, and not even fully aware of the various institutions and services available to support their micro-business.