A new report commissioned by Stone Bank and the Women’s Foundation of Arkansas sheds critical light on the financial realities facing Arkansas women in rural communities, revealing a landscape shaped more by economic insecurity than opportunity.
Titled “You Learn as You Go: Economic Risk & Reality for Women in Rural Arkansas,” the report, conducted by JRT Research & Consulting, draws on survey responses from more than 800 women and in-depth conversations with over 100 participants across the state.
The findings, released on April 15, underscore both the challenges women face and the essential role they play in sustaining Arkansas’s economy.
“This research gives voice to the experiences of women across rural Arkansas,” said Nick Roach, president and CEO of Stone Bank. “We commissioned this report because understanding these realities is the first step toward building stronger communities, expanding access to financial tools, and creating real economic opportunity.”
Key findings include:
- One in three rural households can’t cover a $400 emergency
Many women, especially in rural areas, approach finances as a form of risk management. Nearly one-third of rural respondents said they would not know how to cover an unexpected $400 expense, highlighting widespread financial fragility. - Trial-and-error finance is the norm
Most women reported learning money management through trial and error rather than formal education. Early financial missteps—such as overdrafts or unpaid bills—are common and often shape long-term financial behaviors. - Distrust of financial institutions persists, but reliance on them does too
While more than 90 percent of respondents have a bank account, many women expressed skepticism toward financial institutions, citing concerns about fees, debt and lack of transparency. At the same time, community banks remain a trusted source of guidance, especially for small business financing. - Women are primary financial decision-makers, but don’t see their economic power
More than 92 percent of women surveyed reported being fully or jointly responsible for household financial decisions. Despite this, many do not recognize their broader influence on local and state economies. - Entrepreneurship/side hustles aren’t a choice but a matter of survival
In rural Arkansas, women frequently turn to self-employment or side income to fill gaps in the labor market. However, barriers such as limited access to capital, caregiving responsibilities and lack of networks continue to constrain growth. - Community banks matter more than ever
The new report highlights the critical role community banks play as trusted financial advisors in rural communities.
“The report highlights a clear opportunity to strengthen economic stability in Arkansas by investing in women — particularly through financial education, improved access to capital and stronger partnerships with community-based financial institutions,” said Sandy Straessle, Stone Bank EVP and chief retail banking officer.
Feature image: Stone Bank’s Nick Roach speaks at the release of the WFA report. (Photo provided by Stone Bank)
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