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Transforming Rural Entrepreneurship Through Digital Innovation: A Review on Opportunities, Barriers and Challenges

Author

Listed:
  • Debbra Toria Nipo
  • Jaratin Lily
  • Noor Fzlinda Fabeil
  • Izaan Azyan Abdul Jamil

Abstract

This paper delves into the transformative impact of digital innovation on rural entrepreneurship, highlighting the opportunities, barriers and challenges rural entrepreneurs face. Digital technologies, including e-commerce platforms, mobile applications, and social media, enable rural entrepreneurs to reach broader markets, enhance operational efficiencies, and develop innovative business models. Despite these benefits, the digital divide—characterised by inadequate technological infrastructure and low digital literacy—presents substantial barriers to these digital advancements. Further complicating the adoption of digital technologies are challenges such as a lack of technological expertise and financial constraints, which impede the full realisation of digital innovation in rural areas. This paper discusses various strategies to overcome the barriers to digital transformation in rural entrepreneurship. The key point among these strategies is the implementation of supportive policies encouraging digital adoption. Investment in digital infrastructure is crucial to bridge the technological gap and provide rural areas with the necessary tools to compete in the digital economy. Additionally, targeted educational programs are essential to improve digital literacy and provide rural entrepreneurs with the skills to effectively leverage digital technologies. The paper underscores the importance of a holistic approach, combining policy support, infrastructure development and education to empower rural entrepreneurs. By adopting these strategies, rural communities can achieve sustainable economic growth, enhance their competitiveness, and improve the quality of life for their residents. Ultimately, this paper aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of digital innovation in transforming rural entrepreneurship and offered practical solutions to foster inclusive and sustainable economic development.

Suggested Citation

  • Debbra Toria Nipo & Jaratin Lily & Noor Fzlinda Fabeil & Izaan Azyan Abdul Jamil, 2024. "Transforming Rural Entrepreneurship Through Digital Innovation: A Review on Opportunities, Barriers and Challenges," Journal of Management and Sustainability, Canadian Center of Science and Education, vol. 14(2), pages 114-114, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:ibn:jmsjnl:v:14:y:2024:i:2:p:114
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Rosa Maria Fanelli, 2021. "Barriers to Adopting New Technologies within Rural Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)," Social Sciences, MDPI, vol. 10(11), pages 1-15, November.
    2. Lee, Hyeongjik & Jeong, Seonkoo & Lee, Kwanghee, 2023. "The South Korean case of deploying rural broadband via fiber networks by implementing universal service obligation and public-private partnership based project," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 47(3).
    3. Nazik Fadil & Josée St-Pierre, 2021. "Growing SMEs and internal financing: the role of business practices," Post-Print hal-04999452, HAL.
    4. Sohail Raza Chohan & Guangwei Hu, 2022. "Strengthening digital inclusion through e-government: cohesive ICT training programs to intensify digital competency," Information Technology for Development, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 28(1), pages 16-38, January.
    5. Daniel Kandie & Khan Jahirul Islam, 2022. "A new era of microfinance: The digital microcredit and its impact on poverty," Journal of International Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 34(3), pages 469-492, April.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    JEL classification:

    • R00 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General - - - General
    • Z0 - Other Special Topics - - General

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