Entrepreneurship Education as the key to unlocking the internationalization of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises in Romania

Abstract

This study explores how entrepreneurial training contributes to the global expansion capacity of Romanian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), with a focus on the manufacturing sector. The research addresses how limited access to formal entrepreneurship training programs hinders international growth among SME owners, many of whom depend on experience-based learning. A qualitative methodology was employed, involving content analysis of annual reports and secondary data from literature focused on internationalization barriers. Findings suggest that formal entrepreneurship education significantly improves capabilities such as market analysis, risk assessment, and international strategy development – essential factors for competitiveness in global markets. The study highlights the need for an update in the curriculum of educational programs that should reflect the current status quo and challenges entrepreneurs face, with a focus on emerging economies. It contributes to the academic discourse by framing internationalization as both a strategic and educational process, and offers actionable insights for policy-makers, consultancy firms, and training institutions aiming to support SME international growth.