Abstract
Women entrepreneurs in the coastal waters of the City of Malolos, Bulacan, play a key role in achieving environmentally sustainable economic development. Thus, the current study investigated the importance of financial literacy as a key driver to create climate-resilient business opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) women entrepreneurs in the City of Malolos coastal areas. Using a descriptive-correlational research design, information was obtained from 50 women SME owners using a structured questionnaire to assess financial literacy and business growth measures, including profitability, sustainability, and expansion. Results showed that there is a significant positive relationship between financial literacy and business growth, which also suggests that entrepreneurs high in financial literacy display better performance in profitability, sustainability, and adaptability. The results additionally imply that women entrepreneurs with more knowledge about finance can weather climate-induced risks, maintain business continuity, and bounce back from environmental disturbances. The results show that financial literacy boosts not only business efficiency but also resilience to climate threats. Therefore, it suggests the inclusion of tailored financial education, which takes climate risk management and green entrepreneurship as a basis to strengthen women entrepreneurs on the coast. Enhancement of the programs can strengthen climate adaptation efforts, innovation, and sustainable economic empowerment among disadvantaged societies. Coastal women entrepreneurs have the potential to play an excellent role in building resilient local economies and sustainable livelihoods at a time of increasing climate risk.
Presenters
Maybelle Dela CruzAssociate Professor IV, College of Business Education and Accountancy, Bulacan State University, Philippines
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2026 Special Focus—Unseen Unsustainability: Addressing Hidden Risks to Long-Term Wellbeing for All
KEYWORDS
Financial Literacy, Women Entrepreneurs, Climate Resilience, Coastal Communities
