marketing in agriculture. Rural entrepreneurs benefit from digital economies despite economic, social, and territorial divides. Our analysis of micro and home based entrepreneurs in a mostly rural, underserved community illustrates the complexity of digital inequalities. Small, home-based businesses need broadband services that are fit for purpose in a growing digital economy. A changing nation and global economy threatens to leave rural businesses behind. Telecoms are also reshaping society today. Digital engagement is on everyone’s mind, but despite the phenomenal pace of change, there’s still a huge social, economic, and territorial divide between people with and without access to the Internet. Rural economic development can benefit from digital telecommunications. South Africa and other rural areas are falling behind when it comes to technology, largely because of insufficient telecommunications infrastructure. Different digital infrastructures in different countries make it hard to engage online. The digital economy offers a lot of opportunities for individuals, households, and businesses depending on their
age, income level, and digital skills. There are many uses for broadband technology. There’s been a lot written about the economic benefits of ICTs in this context. As far back as dialup connections, someone said e-business would be essential for business survival. Online engagement has grown in importance for companies of all sizes, across all industries and locations, thanks to the widespread use of the Internet.
advantages, whereby digital connectivity may harm the success of local entrepreneurs. While broadband technology is indispensable for today’s rural economy, it isn’t a panacea by itself. Microbusinesses are heterogeneous in rural remote areas, and households and businesses are interconnected. Additionally, small and microbusinesses lack connectivity and digital skills, so enterprise agencies and rural development agencies need to give these disadvantaged groups the support they need. As a result of the speed and scale of technological transformation, remote rural businesses need to have a more nuanced understanding of their needs, circumstances, and aspirations.
Information and communication technologies (ICTs) can be hugely beneficial to SMEs, microbusinesses, home-based businesses, and self-employed individuals in rural areas. Businesses are taking advantage of the supply and demand opportunities the internet has to offer as they become more reliant on the digital economy. Small rural businesses can use the Internet for social support, to provide information and resources, and to boost growth potential. The Internet is also becoming more and more important for government services. There is however a warning with these Founder LEFA Communications
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