The role of women in managing MSMEs in Medan city

Abstract

 

Women are often stereotypically perceived as the weaker sex, relegated primarily to the role of housewives. However, in reality, many married women successfully manage their own businesses while fulfilling their domestic duties. This study aims to explore the capacity of married women to balance their roles as housewives and entrepreneurs, focusing on aspects such as business challenges, capital acquisition, training, and business development. The research employs a qualitative approach, gathering data through interviews with seven married women who operate businesses in Medan City. These businesses are predominantly micro-enterprises, manageable from home, which allows the women to maintain their household responsibilities. The study reveals that for many of these women, business management is not merely a secondary role but, in some cases, becomes their primary occupation, making them key contributors to the family’s economic stability. The results indicate that the informants generally finance their businesses using personal capital, with only one informant having previously utilized a loan from the BRI KUR program. Although none of the informants have received formal business training, they expressed a strong willingness to participate in training programs if the opportunity arose. Additionally, they are keen to expand their businesses through strategies such as product diversification and broader distribution channels. This study concludes that married women can successfully juggle the dual roles of housewives and entrepreneurs, whether as a supplementary or primary occupation.