Rural-based Businesses in England and Scotland: Unlocking the digital potential of rural areas – research

From Rural England - "This project will take an independent look at businesses’ use of digital connectivity, including how they use it, what benefits arise, what barriers they face and what future potential they see, especially if barriers can be overcome".

The research aims to understand better:

-How to grow the digital economy in rural – areas through e-commerce, exports and productivity gains;
-The level of digital skills and capabilities in rural areas and how to improve them;
-What digital tools and services best support rural businesses;
-What enables some businesses to relocate successfully to rural areas;
-The business sectors in rural areas likely to gain most from digital technology;
-The best rural locations to set-up and manage a digitally-empowered business.