The Role of Smart Non-Terrestrial Network Technologies in Bridging the Gender Gap

Publication Date

1-1-2026

Document Type

Contribution to a Book

Publication Title

Smart Technologies for Sustainable Development Goals Gender Equality

DOI

10.1201/9781003685081-5

First Page

57

Last Page

71

Abstract

Small and micro businesses in recent years have become a viable platform for economic growth in many developing countries. These small and micro business owners, or micro-entrepreneurs, including a large portion of women business owners, require affordable internet connectivity to establish and run their business. Small and micro businesses are important for the survival and growth of local economies in many Low- and Medium-Income Countries (LMIC). In most LMIC, unfortunately, limited infrastructure and connectivity often hinder people, especially women, from starting or growing their businesses. Non-terrestrial networks (NTN), representing a set of smart network technologies, are networks or segments of networks that use either Uncrewed Aircraft Systems or satellites in different constellations to carry a transmission equipment relay node or a base station. Over the past few years, NTNs are evolving as a major element in bridging the digital divide by enabling internet access in remote or underserved areas where traditional broadband infrastructure is either nonexistent or unreliable. Our analysis points out the efficiency of NTN in satisfying the connectivity requirements women micro-entrepreneurs. With NTN, women entrepreneurs in LMIC can overcome the geographical barriers that traditionally limit their access to global markets, resources, and networks, thus empowering them to expand their businesses. We also discuss different options to provide a tradeoff for affordable solutions in LMIC – thus assisting in bridging the ‘digital divide.’ In the long term, we believe that NTN will contribute significantly to closing the gender gap in business ownership; through increased access to information, markets, education, and financial services, satellite networks such as NTN will play a critical role in nurturing women’s micro-entrepreneurship, enhancing their socio-economic status, and achieving gender equity.

Department

Computer Science

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