Cambodia, where micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) make up over 99% of businesses, faces unique challenges and opportunities for integrating gender into its investment landscape. As women-owned enterprises play a significant role in the economy, gender lens investing (GLI) emerges as a critical tool for promoting economic empowerment and gender equality.
Commissioned by the Sasakawa Peace Foundation (SPF) and Swisscontact, this report investigates the current GLI landscape in Cambodia. Through surveys, interviews, and focus groups with 200 enterprises and 68 ecosystem actors, the study identifies key stakeholders, financial and technical needs, and existing gaps that GLI can address. This research also spotlights critical sectors for GLI, including finance, agriculture, healthcare, and climate resilience, underscoring the potential impact of GLI on women-led businesses and workforce diversity.
The report profiles case studies such as the Cnai Accelerator, which supports gender-inclusive business practices, and Sweef Capital, demonstrating GLI’s role in enhancing women’s entrepreneurial participation. It also highlights recommendations to strengthen Cambodia’s GLI ecosystem, including policy support, financial product development, mentorship programs, and raising GLI awareness.
Prepared in English, this report provides a foundational roadmap for stakeholders, from investors to development partners, to foster inclusive growth in Cambodia.