ARE TECH STARTUPS A REAL OPPORTUNITY FOR LOCAL YOUTH?

Abstract

In recent years, technology startups have emerged as a dynamic force in the global economy, offering flexible and innovative employment pathways. While urban centers have witnessed significant startup growth, the extent to which these opportunities are accessible to youth in local and rural communities remains underexplored. This study adopts a qualitative approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews with 20 young aspiring entrepreneurs from three different regions lacking advanced technological infrastructure. In addition, policy documents and regional economic development reports were analyzed to assess the institutional support available for tech entrepreneurship at the local level. Findings indicate that while interest in tech entrepreneurship among local youth is high, key barriers such as limited internet access, lack of mentorship, insufficient startup capital, and inadequate digital education hinder meaningful participation. However, isolated cases of success were found in areas with active community initiatives, access to coding bootcamps, or remote freelance platforms. The study concludes that tech startups represent a potential but unequally distributed opportunity for local youth. Bridging the urban-rural digital divide, expanding access to entrepreneurial education, and strengthening local startup ecosystems are essential to transforming this potential into a sustainable reality.