The 2nd National Seminar on Local Development in Algeria was held at the University of Mouloud Mammeri in Tizi Ouzou, focusing on green entrepreneurship and women's entrepreneurship. The event brought together experts and researchers to discuss the importance of integrating environmental concerns into development projects. With climate change and environmental degradation posing significant threats, the seminar aimed to explore innovative solutions for sustainable development. The event featured various presentations and discussions on green entrepreneurship, its challenges, and its potential for economic growth.
One of the key presentations was titled "Green Entrepreneurship in Tizi-Ouzou: Reality, Constraints, and Development Perspectives." The presenter, Doctoral student Mohand Saïd Ania Thinhinane, highlighted the importance of green economy in improving social welfare and reducing environmental risks. She defined green entrepreneurship as seeking innovative solutions that are economically viable, socially useful, and environmentally friendly. Thinhinane emphasized that green entrepreneurship can contribute to sustainable development and economic growth by investing in areas such as renewable energy, agriculture, and waste management.
Thinhinane also discussed the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in Tizi Ouzou, including psychological, social, regulatory, institutional, environmental, and financial obstacles. To overcome these challenges, she suggested that support systems and financing mechanisms need to be adapted to the local context. The presenter highlighted the role of public support systems, such as ANSEJ, CNAC, ANDI, and ANGEM, in promoting entrepreneurship in the environmental sector. According to Thinhinane, 251 micro-enterprises were created in the environmental sector through these financing mechanisms, contributing to job creation and wealth generation.
Another presentation focused on women's entrepreneurship, co-authored by Dr. Abrika and Dr. Samdi. The study analyzed the entrepreneurial process of women, their level of involvement in informal activities, and the reasons behind their participation in the informal sector. The researchers found that 38% of women entrepreneurs engage in informal activities, with 71% having a medium or secondary level of education. The study also identified factors that drive women to engage in informal activities, including the absence of a culture of taxation, rejection by the state, and social and family influences.
The study on women's entrepreneurship revealed that among 310 women entrepreneurs surveyed, 117 operate in the informal sector. The researchers also found that the income generated by these women is primarily allocated to family expenses (66%), savings (20%), and business expansion (3%). The study concluded that women's entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in development, and that women entrepreneurs demonstrate resilience and dynamism in the face of social vulnerabilities.
The seminar also highlighted the importance of university involvement in promoting green entrepreneurship and territorial development. The researchers emphasized the need for a collective awareness and a responsible approach to development, with a focus on environmental sustainability. They also recommended providing incentives and support for green entrepreneurship, including access to financing and training.
The event concluded with a call for action to promote green entrepreneurship and women's empowerment in Algeria. The seminar demonstrated the potential for innovative solutions to address environmental and social challenges, and the importance of collaboration between stakeholders to achieve sustainable development. The presentations and discussions will contribute to the development of policies and strategies to support entrepreneurship and territorial development in Algeria.
Key points
- Green entrepreneurship can contribute to sustainable development and economic growth in Algeria.
- Women's entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in development, but faces significant challenges.
- University involvement is essential in promoting green entrepreneurship and territorial development.
