Disability-Inclusive Entrepreneurship and Financial Services Assessment

Grameen Foundation USA and the National Union of Disabled Persons of Uganda (NUDIPU) conducted a multisectoral assessment to identify promising approaches to advance the economic growth of people with disabilities in Uganda, with a specific focus on entrepreneurship and increased access to finance. The assessment focused on entrepreneurship possibilities for adults with disabilities (aged 35 and above) and youth with disabilities (aged 18-35 years).

The assessment identified several promising value chains and livelihoods where people with disabilities, especially youth, are likely to succeed. Key sectors include poultry, retail and wholesale businesses, piggery, vegetable trading, handicrafts, and tailoring. These sectors are well-suited for people with disabilities because they have the ability to generate regular, daily or weekly income, require limited landholding, and are accessible for people with mobility impairments.

To meet the investment needs for these livelihoods, financial service providers must design inclusive financial products that respond to the needs, preferences and constraints of people with disabilities. This includes adjusting product terms and conditions, promoting digital financial services delivery channels which are easier for people with disabilities to access, improving staff capacity to serve people with disabilities, and enhancing the accessibility of banking infrastructure.