Romania’s ageing population: Entrepreneurship opportunities and challenges

Abstract

The purpose of this pioneering chapter is to contribute to a better understanding of the unexplored potential provided by the Romania’s fast growing ‘silver’ demographic segment to entrepreneurs of all ages. Romanian seniors’ multiple active and passive roles in the longevity/silver economy are emphasized in a relevant manner. In the context of scarce literature, minimal and newly available government statistics, this empirical research creates new knowledge based on an in-depth comprehensive analysis and interpretation of both primary and secondary data, revealing both general aspects of the analyzed topic and those specific to Romania. It also suggests future research themes and provides direction for future actions of the stakeholders that can play a role in a positive approach to ageing. It is the first time that a book chapter has covered Romanian entrepreneurship, senior entrepreneurship included, that reflects an emerging-market, formerly communist country and the challenges and opportunities related to its ageing population.