By implementing the project, the aim was to address the significant challenges faced by women in family businesses, focusing on enhancing their leadership skills and competencies to ensure the sustainability and growth of these businesses. Key goals included improving leadership skills for women already involved or those who will be involved in family businesses, enhancing their ability to take risks, be competitive, and entrepreneurial. The project also sought to increase conflict management skills among future generations of women in these businesses and to boost digital skills. Moreover, it aimed to provide support for SMEs by leveraging lifelong education systems in adult education to offer employment opportunities. Creating awareness about the challenges faced by family businesses, developing their competitiveness, international visibility, and fostering new business ventures were also central goals. Additionally, providing access to all training, meetings, conferences, and networking events about family businesses was expected to ensure the sustainability of these businesses. The Women Leaders in Family Businesses Training Program was designed to continue in associations, chambers of commerce, and Lifelong Learning centers.
The project was applied for due to the need for skilled labor and unemployment in the EU and Turkey, aiming to improve adult education quality and connect education with the business world. With family businesses making up 85% of EU companies and being crucial to the economy, the project identified a gap in women's participation, especially those unexpectedly taking leadership roles. These women often lacked the necessary skills for business sustainability, affecting business continuity and employment rates. The project focused on enhancing women's leadership skills, entrepreneurship, digital literacy, and conflict management, promoting gender equality, and fostering economic growth. By addressing these specific needs, the project aimed to support women in family businesses, contributing to the EU's goals on employment, education, and gender equality.