Women are underrepresented in successful entrepreneurial ecosystems and the creation of
women-only entrepreneurial networks has been a widespread policy response. We examine
the entrepreneurial ecosystem construct and suggest that it, and the role networks play in
entrepreneurial ecosystems, can be analysed in terms of Bourdieu's socio-analysis as field,
habitus and capital. Specifically, we develop the notion of gender capital as the skill set
associated with femininity or from simply being recognized as feminine. We apply this to the
development of women's entrepreneurial networks as a gender capital enhancing initiative.
Using data from qualitative interviews with network coordinators and women entrepreneurs
we reflect on the extent to which formally established women-only networks generate gender
capital for their members and improve their ability to participate in the entrepreneurial
ecosystem. The paper concludes by drawing out the implications of our analysis for theory,
entrepreneurial practice and economic development policy.
Item Type:
Article (Published)
Refereed:
Yes
Uncontrolled Keywords:
Entrepreneurial ecosystems; Networks; Bourdieu; Habitus; Field; Gender capital; Women entrepreneurs