Innovation in rural entrepreneurship. Case study of economic activities in the Pilica River Valley (Dolina Pilicy) Cover Image

Innowacja w wiejskiej przedsiębiorczości. Studium przypadku działalności gospodarczej z obszaru Doliny Pilicy
Innovation in rural entrepreneurship. Case study of economic activities in the Pilica River Valley (Dolina Pilicy)

Author(s): Katarzyna Zajda
Subject(s): Economy
Published by: EUROREG - Uniwersytet Warszawski, Regional Studies Association - Sekcja Polska
Keywords: innovation; rural entrepreneurship

Summary/Abstract: One of the challenges for the contemporary Polish village is the transformation of its economic structure. It is necessary not only to create new jobs in the non-agricultural sector, but also to increase the competitiveness of enterprises. In their activities, entrepreneurs may use local resources in an innovative way. The author of the present article focuses on the following question: “What is the potential of entrepreneurs as far as the innovation based on local resources is concerned?”. Innovation is defined as a way of using local resources which emphasizes the specificity of an area. In her research (undertook in 2012), the author analyzed the local resources of the Pilica River Valley and the applications for support (from Rural Development Programme 2007–2013) submitted by the entrepreneurs to the local action group. The entrepreneurs (in their activity) do not use the resources which have been identified in the local development strategy. The additional funding allowed them to increase the competitiveness of their companies, but was not used to make their activities more innovative.

  • Issue Year: 14/2013
  • Issue No: 51
  • Page Range: 90-106
  • Page Count: 10
  • Language: Polish