The Road Ahead is Uphill: Female Entrepreneurs and Digitalization in Small and Medium Enterprise Sector in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Digitalization is the key to growth for entrepreneurial firms. In particular, the contemporary economy emphasizes the importance of digitalization as a crucialhandler towards business success, especially for both female-led and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).Unfortunately, in the context of developing countries, little is known about female entrepreneurship and digitalization. Therefore, this study aimstoexplorethe Sri Lankan female entreprenurs’ intentions, practices, and constraints towards digitalization.This study applies a qualitative research design, and semi-structured interviews with seven respondents were the techniques used for data collection.Data were analysed and interpreted using thematic analysis.The study's findings reveal that these female entrepreneurs acquire digitalization-based knowledge and skills through formal and informal learning. Moreover, they are practising digital platforms to develop their businesses, like social media and websites, while facing technical and non-technical issues. Finally, the results reveal significant implications for policies and digitalization strategies for female SME owners.