Document Type
Research Report
Publication Date
12-13-2025
Abstract
This report presents the findings of our eight-week field research project with Inkomoko, a social enterprise supporting entrepreneurs across East and Central Africa. Our project examined the feasibility of transforming Inkomoko’s investment arm into an independent microfinance institution (MFI) to expand flexible, sustainable access to capital. In addition, we explored how such a shift could improve equitable lending for women entrepreneurs, who continue to face systemic barriers in financing and growth opportunities. Through nearly 50 interviews conducted in 10 communities across Rwanda and Kenya, our team engaged with a diverse range of Inkomoko clients, including refugees and host-country natives, small-scale businesses, service providers, and manufacturers. Our semi-structured interviews, averaging 25 minutes each, allowed us to understand entrepreneurs’ lived experiences with loan access, repayment cycles, and business sustainability.
Recommended Citation
Pink, Isabelle; Weldemariam, Saron; and Routh, Julia, "Inkomoko" (2025). Miller Center Fellowship. 182.
https://scholarcommons.scu.edu/gsbf/182
