EMPOWERING VILLAGE SELF-ENTREPRENEURS IN SRI LANKA THROUGH A DIGITAL MARKETPLACE: A QUANTITATIVE STUDY
H.A.A. Deshani1*, D.M.N.N.N. Disanayaka2, J. Dulani3, T.H.D.K.R. Jayasekara4, S.I. Polhena5, D.A.S. Ruwanmini6 and Y.R.C. Ariyathilaka7
1,2,3,4,5,6,7Institute of Technology, University of Moratuwa, Homagama
Session: Technical Session C
Abstract
Village self-entrepreneurs in developing countries like Sri Lanka face several challenges. This study investigates these barriers using a quantitative survey, including structured questionnaires administered to 30 rural businesses, supplemented with qualitative insights from open-ended responses. Survey findings revealed that most entrepreneurs struggle with limited access to finance, weak digital marketing knowledge, inadequate sales channels, and insufficient institutional support. In terms of support needs, respondents emphasized access to loans, improved market opportunities, and training in digital tools. Notably, while less than half of participants had prior knowledge of digital selling, over 90% expressed willingness to adopt a localized and affordable digital solution.Based on these findings, the study proposes a mobile-first platform featuring several innovative modules, an investment matching module enabling profit-based or corporate social responsibility support, an affiliate marketing module for low-cost promotion, and a partnership module connecting entrepreneurs with external vendor outlets. Platform credibility is ensured through admin-verified guidelines, automated financial processes, and report templates for tracking transactions, complementing the sales module for direct product sales. Beyond Sri Lanka, the platform offers scalability for adoption in other developing regions facing similar entrepreneurial constraints. This integrated solution aims to enhance market access, financial support, and digital capabilities for rural self-entrepreneurs.
Keywords: self-entrepreneurs, quantitative survey, digital marketplace
DOI: 10.64752/HJPX7524