• Muazu Yunusa Riruwai
• DR. Nuruddeen Abba Abdullahi

Abstract Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are one of the key pillars of economic growth in developing countries and play a significant role in the creation of jobs, reduction of poverty, innovation, and gross domestic product (GDP) increment. The study examines the impact of financial inclusion on the financial performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in Kano State, Nigeria. the study adopted a questionnaire survey designed method, utilizing 381 responses from registered SMEs in Kano State. Data was analysed using multiple regression. The ordered logit result shows that digital financial services have positive and statistically significant effects on the financial performance of SMEs in Kano State. Credit access indicates positive and statistically significant effect on financial performance of SMEs in Kano State. Financial literacy has a positive and statistically significant effect on financial performance in Kano State. The year of business establishment (firm age) has a negative and statistically significant effect on financial performance of SMEs in Kano State. Sector of firm has a positive and statistically insignificant effect on financial performance of SMEs in Kano State. Experience has a negative and statistically significant effect on financial performance of SMEs in Kano State. Gender has a positive and statistically significant effect on financial performance of SMEsin Kano State. The study concludes that financial inclusion has a positive effect on financial performance of SMEs in Kano State. It recommends that government in collaboration with financial institutions should invest in reliable digital platforms, improve mobile banking networks, and ensure reduced transaction costs. Digital literacy campaigns should also be developed by regulatory authorities to increase the uptake and efficient use of these services among SME owners.

Financial Inclusion, Financial Performance, SMEs, Ordered logit JEL Classification: G21, L25, L26, C20

"Impact of Financial Inclusion on Financial Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in Kano State, Nigeria", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 12, page no.c768-c785, December-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2512291.pdf

"Impact of Financial Inclusion on Financial Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in Kano State, Nigeria", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 12, page no. ppc768-c785, December-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2512291.pdf