More than 4,000 women from across Romania participated in the National Forum 'De Vocatie Antreprenoare' (Entrepreneur by vocation) over its seven previous editions, according to the National Confederation for Women's Entrepreneurship (CONAF), which launched the initiative aimed to transform women's potential into an active economic force, the organisation announced on Thursday.

The eighth edition of the forum will be held on 10 November 2025 at the Pitesti Philharmonic, between 3pm and 8pm, organisers confirmed.

'In a context where only a third of Romanian entrepreneurs are women, CONAF's goal is to reduce the opportunity gap between women and men in entrepreneurship. This is essential for sustainable nationwide economic growth and competitiveness,' the organisation mentioned.

According to the same source, the forum addresses all those who believe in the power of initiative and entrepreneurial education as tools for personal and professional transformation.

'It is a meeting space for people seeking purpose, direction, inspiration and tangible resources to unlock their potential and build sustainable businesses based on values and competence. Through the forum, CONAF lays the groundwork for an inclusive economic environment, supporting every participant to discover, develop and harness their potential while contributing to a modern economy built on diversity, skill and performance,' the release added.

Described as a 'laboratory of applied economic thinking', the forum blends inspiration with analysis, turning vocation into strategy. It combines practical training sessions, meaningful dialogue and authentic connections among leaders to create the ideal setting for ideas to evolve into alliances and for entrepreneurial energy to strengthen a more balanced, inclusive and competitive economy.

Arges County remains one of the most dynamic areas of the South-Muntenia region, home to more than a quarter of the region's active enterprises. However, women remain underrepresented among business founders, and more than 4,000 are currently unemployed, according to data from the Arges County Employment Agency as of January 2025.

'This reality shows that despite the region's economic potential, barriers still exist that hinder equal participation of women in the economy. Through the forum, CONAF offers a concrete solution - a model based on education, mentorship and solidarity - to help women in Arges transition from economic dependence to autonomy and local leadership. It is a natural step towards a more balanced society where competence has no gender,' said CONAF president Cristina Chiriac.

Women make up more than half of the population in Arges, one of the region's most active economic zones, accounting for over 26 per cent of South-Muntenia's active enterprises.

'Despite this potential, more than 4,000 women in the county are still looking for employment. The forum aims to become a turning point for those who wish to achieve financial independence and pursue their own professional paths. The ‘De Vocatie Antreprenoare' series is the first and most comprehensive initiative of its kind in Romania. It is organised by CONAF in partnership with the National Association of Entrepreneurs (ANAA) and the Women Entrepreneurs' Employers' Organisation (PFA), with the purpose of driving a change in mentality and fostering a powerful community with vast potential - women's entrepreneurship,' the organisation said.

The National Confederation for Women's Entrepreneurship (CONAF) is one of Romania's most prominent organisations advocating for efficient dialogue with authorities and public policies that support sustainable growth. It represents 31 branches, 3 federations, 13 employers' associations, 38 other associations and 8,000 companies employing more than 245,000 people. AGERPRES (RO - writing by: Nicoleta Banciula: EN - writing by: Adina Panaitescu)