Second Challenge Mapping Workshop in Banja Luka

On 28th February, The Development Agency of the Republic of Srpska (RARS), as part of the GRANDIS – Green, Digital, Female-Driven SMEs project, held a challenge mapping workshop in Banja Luka. The workshop aimed to identify the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs and female-led SMEs, particularly in the areas of green/energy transition and business digitalisation.

Representatives from RARS, the Ministry of Economy and Entrepreneurship of the Republic of Srpska, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Republic of Srpska, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Banja Luka Region, the City Development Agency Banja Luka, the Centre for Gender Equity and Equality (Gender Centre), and the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Banja Luka discussed the key challenges encountered by both female entrepreneurs and policymakers. These challenges included cultural attitudes, balancing work and private life, skills development, access to finance and resources, support services, and networking opportunities.

The identified challenges will be presented to policymakers in the Republic of Srpska and will contribute to the development of strategic documents on female entrepreneurship.

The GRANDIS project aims to unlock the potential of female entrepreneurs and female-led SMEs in the twin-transition sectors of green and digital technologies - areas where they are currently underrepresented. By disseminating knowledge, developing gender-inclusive policies, and providing support to regional and national authorities, the project seeks to foster balanced and sustainable economic growth across European regions.