Women entrepreneurs in the production sector on both banks of the Nistru River demonstrate strong potential for growth and expansion on domestic and foreign markets, yet they continue to face barriers that limit their progress. Limited access to finance, bureaucratic requirements, insufficient information about export markets, and family responsibilities that reduce the time available for business are among the main challenges reported. At the same time, women entrepreneurs show increasing interest in innovation for business development, professional training and digitalization, as well as in strengthening collaboration networks among businesswomen from both banks of the Nistru River.

These findings are presented in the study “Challenges and opportunities for women entrepreneurs in the production sector” developed by the Association of Women Entrepreneurs of Moldova (AFAM) in partnership with the NGO “Innovation and Development Agency” from Tiraspol, with financial support from Sweden and the United Kingdom, under the UNDP project “Advanced Cross-River Capacities for Trade” (AdTrade).

“Women in the manufacturing sector need not only financial resources, but also an ecosystem that recognizes their potential, provides them with access to information, networks, and equal conditions to develop their businesses. We believe that this study will be a useful practical tool for decision-makers and support organizations that contribute to strengthening women entrepreneurship and inclusive economic development”, 
said Seher Ariner, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative to the Republic of Moldova, during the study’s presentation event.

The event brought together women entrepreneurs from both banks of the Nistru River, policymakers, development partners, business associations, and experts in economic development and inclusion.

The study analyzes the experiences of 106 women entrepreneurs from both banks of the Nistru River, working in various sectors such as food production and packaging, textiles, handicrafts, and other production fields. This diversity provided a representative overview of the realities faced by women in business.

According to the report, most women entrepreneurs operate in industries such as food production, apparel, handicrafts, and wood processing. Nearly three-quarters of them have higher education, but this level of education does not automatically translate into equal business growth opportunities. The main barriers identified include lack of start-up capital, limited access to credit, complex bureaucratic procedures, and insufficient information on export processes.

The study also highlights considerable growth potential. Women entrepreneurs show strong interest in diversifying their products, entering foreign markets, and participating in professional training. An increasing number seek collaboration opportunities and are ready to innovate, provided they have access to tailored financial instruments and advisory support.

The authors of the study emphasize that an effective support strategy should include flexible financing for women-led businesses, simplified administrative procedures, the creation of mentorship and continuous training platforms, and the integration of gender perspectives into national and local economic policies.