ECOSYSTEM MAPPING OF STARTUPS, ENTREPRENEURS, AND SMEs IN BAUCHI STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study presents an ecosystem mapping of startups, entrepreneurs, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Bauchi State, Nigeria, using a survey research design. The population comprised entrepreneurs, startup founders, and SME owners across multiple sectors in Bauchi State, while 1,000 valid responses were obtained from 1,200 distributed questionnaires through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered online and offline and analyzed using descriptive statistics, specifically frequencies and percentages, supported by charts. The study examined demographic profiles, business sectors, challenges, technical skills, income levels, and support needs of entrepreneurs. The findings revealed that the majority of respondents are aged 26–35 years (56.8%), with females representing 71% of respondents. Over 93% currently run a business, concentrated in food processing and catering, agriculture, textiles/fashion, ICT, and related activities. Major challenges include limited funding (72%), restricted market access (18%), and technical capacity gaps, while more than 92% expressed interest in acquiring new skills such as digital marketing, financial management, and ICT. Although 51% earn below NGN 50,000 monthly, respondents identified opportunities for locally produced goods in wider markets. The study concludes that Bauchi hosts a vibrant but resource-constrained entrepreneurial ecosystem, requiring targeted interventions in financing, skill development, shared infrastructure, and market linkages to enhance productivity and economic inclusion.