The Woman Entrepreneur Programme
About this good practice
The Woman Entrepreneur Programme aims to address the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs, including work-life balance and prejudice, by providing essential resources for their success.
The eligible applicants are women having the role of main associate, shareholder, administrator of a company. There is an evaluation grid, the implementation period is one year and can be extended by the funding institution.
To achieve its objectives, the program utilizes diverse methods. Initially launched through workshops covering travel and accommodation costs, it has evolved into a comprehensive scheme. The current phase involves providing minimis grants of up to 40,000 euros to 1,000 women-led businesses, with an estimated total budget of 40,000,000 euros for a period of 6 years. The grants constitute a maximum of 95% of the value of the eligible expenses related to the project when they create and maintain two new jobs and the funds are disbursed in a single reimbursement.
The financial support can cover technological equipment, acquisition of work spaces, production locations and spaces for services and trade, cars, furniture, office equipment, a complex digital package or intensive courses.
Cluj-Napoca Agency for SMEs has been providing pro bono business coaching sessions for local beneficiaries in Cluj County. The community benefits from the economic impact of consolidated businesses led by women, while society benefits from reducing gender inequalities in entrepreneurship.
Resources needed
The program requires the allocation of financial (40 mil EURO allocation for the 2022 edition), human, and administrative resources (Governmental and SMEs agencies networks), along with effective partnerships, training, monitoring tools, outreach efforts, and access to technology.
Evidence of success
Women entrepreneurs are direct beneficiaries, gaining access to financial assistance and networks. In 2022, 9520 applicants applied in the program, and we have approximately 1000 contracts signed up to this moment.
Additionally, Cluj-Napoca Agency for SMEs provided coaching sessions for 23 women entrepreneurs by engaging 18 coaches for 97 hours. This initiative contributed to fostering a high-performance, inclusive business environment and developing leadership skills.
Potential for learning or transfer
The Woman Entrepreneur Programme in Romania presents a model for sustainable business development, addressing gender inequalities in entrepreneurship. Its comprehensive approach, including financial assistance and coaching sessions (particularly in Cluj-Napoca), has led to tangible benefits for women entrepreneurs and society at large.
The program's success can be attributed to various factors, such as effective partnership between government agencies and the private sector, targeted financial support, and tailored coaching sessions. The program's transferability lies in its reliance on state-budget allocation, existing public-private business networks, and dedicated program management expertise. By examining the key success factors and potential challenges, other regions can learn valuable lessons in implementing similar initiatives to support women entrepreneurs and promote sustainable economic development.
Further information
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