Radostina Shivatcheva (BG-Swiss Fellowships for Bulgarian Academic Diaspora, Oct ‘25 – Jul ‘26) will give a talk on:

Innovation Beyond the State: Gender and Entrepreneurship in Grassroots Contributions to Bulgaria’s Knowledge Economy

13 November 2025 (Thursday), at 16:30.

Moderated by: Radoslava Kuneva

Abstract: This study explores gendered entrepreneurship in Bulgaria’s knowledge economy, with a focus on the ICT and biotechnology sectors. It builds on prior research on the national innovation systems of Bulgaria and Kazakhstan and draws on extensive fieldwork in both countries. The study examines how women navigate high-growth sectors, shape technological knowledge, and contribute to innovation capacity, applying a feminist political economy lens to analyse how gendered institutional arrangements shape access to resources, networks, and opportunities.

Bulgaria has a long-standing history of technological capability, particularly in sectors such as ICT, where it was once a leader within the Soviet bloc. The country’s post-1989 trajectory has been marked by economic restructuring, shifting policy priorities, and integration into the EU. Despite modernization efforts, challenges remain in fostering an inclusive and sustainable innovation system and thus achieving competitive, knowledge-based growth. European integration has brought opportunities for modernization but has not necessarily fostered inclusivity. By foregrounding women’s entrepreneurial practices and strategies, the project highlights how gendered dynamics intersect with national innovation pathways. The presentation will detail the methodological framework and research trajectory, alongside a discussion of anticipated fieldwork challenges and feasibility considerations.