Estratégias financeiras para micro e pequenas empresas: desafios e oportunidades

Abstract

Micro and small enterprises play an important role in GDP, job creation, and the dynamism of the local economy. Despite their importance, these small businesses face significant challenges related to financial management. These organizations experience limitations in access to credit, difficulties in maintaining a balanced cash flow, and a lack of efficient and effective strategic planning, which can compromise their sustainable growth. Thus, the research problem arose with the following question: How is financial management perceived and applied in micro and small enterprises in Oeiras-PI? In light of this, the study aimed to investigate how the owners and managers of micro and small enterprises perceive and apply financial strategies. The methodology adopted in this study is descriptive quantitative, based on the survey method, which utilized a structured questionnaire with closed questions, using the Likert scale method, addressing issues regarding the manager's and the company's profile, knowledge of financial management, financial strategies adopted, main difficulties faced, and perception of the importance of financial education. From the analysis of the results obtained with the questionnaires applied to managers of micro and small enterprises in Oeiras Piauí, it was observed that, although most recognize the importance of financial strategies and demonstrate some degree of organization in financial management, there are still gaps in the use of appropriate tools, in budget planning, and in technical training. Most managers claim to have control over finances and feel prepared for decision-making; however, many decisions are still based on personal experiences rather than structured data. The main difficulties pointed out include unlimited access to technologies, lack of time, and insufficient knowledge about financial tools. It is concluded that there is a growing recognition of the importance of financial strategies for business growth, but there is still a need to invest in financial education, institutional support, and easier access to management tools to strengthen these companies.