Unlocking potential: Digital competences for rural women entrepreneurship in Romania

In rural areas, women entrepreneurs play a crucial role in fostering community development, contributing significantly to economic progress and social unity. Nevertheless, within a technology-dominated era, the significance of digital skills is rising, becoming indispensable for success in a swiftly evolving economic environment. Consequently, it is essential to investigate how female entrepreneurs in rural areas are adjusting and improving their digital competences. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to identify the current training requirements and gaps in digital skills and competencies among rural women in Romania. To achieve the intended objective, we conducted a comprehensive analysis involving desk research, statistical data examination, interviews with female entrepreneurs in rural areas, and discussions with entrepreneurship trainers. The findings indicated that Romania is confronted with low levels of digital skills, particularly among individuals with lower education levels and those living in rural areas. This situation also hinders the prospects of women within these demographics from engaging in successful entrepreneurial endeavors.