BACKGROUND

Every Woman Deserves Financial Access

Her Advantage is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering Nigerian women by closing the gender gap in financial inclusion. We address gender-specific barriers to women’s economic empowerment by increasing women’s access to financial products and services, strengthening their productive capacities, and challenging discriminatory systemic barriers to their financial inclusion.

THE PROBLEM

Globally, three-quarters of a billion women are excluded from the formal financial sector, with women in developing economies being the most affected. In Nigeria, the gap is particularly stark: millions of women, especially in low-income and rural communities, lack access to basic financial services like savings accounts, payments, insurance, and credit that meet their unique needs. This is a result of gender stereotypes, societal norms, and biased systems and processes within the financial sector.
The impact of financial exclusion on women is far-reaching and devastating. Without access to basic financial services, women are forced to rely on informal and often exploitative financial systems or family members for their needs. It limits their ability to save, invest, plan for the future, and break free from poverty. Financial exclusion also restricts women's ability to start or grow businesses, access education and healthcare, and respond to economic shocks, such as illness or job loss. Moreover, it perpetuates gender inequality because it limits women's autonomy and decision-making power.
By excluding women from the formal financial sector, they are essentially being denied the tools and resources needed to improve their lives, families, and communities.

OUR APPROACH

Her Advantage was born out of a pressing need to break down gender-specific barriers that impede Nigerian women's economic participation and empowerment. Our work is informed by research on women’s lived experiences, struggles and aspirations. At Her Advantage, we take a holistic approach to addressing this challenge, recognizing that empowering women financially is not only a matter of fairness but a strategic imperative for national growth and societal stability.

WHY IT MATTERS

Financial Inclusion for Women, Prosperity for All

Financial inclusion is a critical step towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. By promoting access to financial services for women, we can help break the cycle of poverty, drive economic growth, reduce inequalities, and contribute to a more prosperous and equitable society. Beyond increasing women’s economic independence, decision-making power, autonomy, and self-confidence, financial inclusion also enables women invest in their households, build resilient communities, and contribute to national economic growth.