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In the context of rapid technological change and increasing demands for sustainable development, this paper investigates the role of female-led startups in driving workforce transformation and economic resilience. The research aims to evaluate how women entrepreneurs contribute to digital innovation, inclusive employment, and environmentally sustainable practices, with a particular focus on the Romanian entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The study employs a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative analysis—using data from platforms such as Crunchbase, AngelList, and national statistics—with qualitative research, including 25 semi-structured interviews with female startup founders from diverse sectors. Data analysis was performed using SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) for statistical correlation and NVivo for thematic exploration. Case studies of successful Romanian female-led ventures provide practical illustrations of the findings.
Preliminary results indicate that female-led startups are more likely to implement inclusive hiring policies, adopt flexible work models, and integrate technologies such as AI and data analytics. Moreover, these businesses demonstrate a higher engagement with sustainable practices, contributing positively to economic innovation and social impact. However, challenges related to access to funding and structural gender biases persist.
The findings offer relevant policy recommendations for enhancing support systems for women entrepreneurs, including targeted funding mechanisms, mentorship programs, and the promotion of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education among young women. The paper concludes by highlighting the need for continued research into the long-term and sector-specific effects of female entrepreneurship on global workforce dynamics.
