An assessment; the financial management skills of small retail business owners in Island Garden City of Samal

Abstract

Financial management is a fundamental aspect of business sustainability and growth. Samal Island is characterized by a growing tourism industry, attracting many visitors annually, which is an integral part of the Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS). Small retail businesses, such as convenience stores, souvenir shops, and food establishments, cater to tourists and residents. However, many small retail business owners need help managing their financial resources. There are yet-to-be-published local studies assessing small business owners' financial management skills. This study fills that gap by investigating and assessing the financial management skills of small business owners in the Island Garden City of Samal. This study is a quantitative study that employed a quantitative-descriptive research design. Results show the importance of financial management for the small business owner. The study also revealed that gender, age, and educational attainment do not play a substantial role in determining the financial management skills of small retail business owners. it suggests that factors such as practical experience, personal traits, and a willingness to learn play an equally, if not more important, role in shaping an individual's ability to manage the finances of their business effectively and not due to these factors.