In the difficult economic situation caused by the pandemic, the majority of women entrepreneurs in Russia (93 per cent) plan to further develop their businesses. This is evidenced by the results of a study conducted by the NAFI analytical centre jointly with the ‘Otkritie’ Bank and the ‘Opora Rossii’ Committee for the Development of Women’s Entrepreneurship.
Despite the fact that 41 per cent of women entrepreneurs noted the negative impact of the pandemic on their business, some of the economically difficult periods gave the necessary impetus for development. Thus, 10 per cent noted the growth of their companies, and 16 per cent began to diversify their business, moving in new directions.
Also, despite the difficulties associated with the pandemic, 39 per cent of women entrepreneurs believe that they will be able to fully recover their lost positions in a fairly short time (from 3 months to 1 year). Assessing the immediate prospects, 59 per cent of women entrepreneurs hope to maintain their current business volumes, and 29 per cent plan to increase them.
In addition, the majority of women entrepreneurs (62 per cent) received vocational training during the pandemic and achieved a noticeable increase in business skills. It is specified that digital marketing, strategic management, and soft skills have become priority areas for additional knowledge.
Ru-Main, 16.02.2021
