From Potential to Action: Strategies for Supporting Female Founders in the Pre-Start-Up Phase

Authors

  • Thérèse Schmutz
  • Dario Meyer University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland https://orcid.org/0009-0004-3116-2632
  • Daniel Merz
  • Rolf Meyer

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.34190/ecie.19.1.2587

Keywords:

female entrepreneurship, gender disparity, pre-start-up process, entrepreneurship ecosystem, start-up support, entrepreneurial tendency

Abstract

In today’s global economy, the role of start-ups is recognized as crucial for a country's competitiveness. Creating a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem is therefore essential to enable founders to realize their potential optimally. Notably, there is a significant gender disparity in start-ups, suggesting a vast untapped entrepreneurial potential among women. This research aims to enhance the utilization of female start-up potential by providing actionable recommendations, based on an empirical analysis of the pre-start-up process of (potential) female founders. Through a qualitative research methodology, this study investigates the factors influencing women's journey towards entrepreneurship, considering diverse biographies and life situations. Interviews with ten women showed the complexity of the pre-start-up phase and the necessity for a broad support system. The study identifies several key areas for action to foster female entrepreneurship. Firstly, increasing awareness and visibility of self-employment as a viable career path for women is crucial, requiring more female role models and media representation to challenge traditional gender roles and stereotypes. This could cultivate a natural inclination towards entrepreneurship and sectors with high start-up activity. Moreover, lessening the disproportionate burden of family responsibilities on women is essential, suggesting enhancements in childcare facilities and encouraging shared domestic duties. The research further suggests the implementation of support programs to reduce barriers and provide a realistic view of entrepreneurship, alongside the potential benefits of mentorship in both pre- and post-start-up phases. Women's risk-averse, cautious approach in the pre-start-up process often leads to hesitance in developing innovative projects. Encouraging a focus on market needs and early engagement with potential customers, alongside proactive network building, seeking co-founders, or outsourcing, can address knowledge gaps and reduce uncertainties, making self-employment a more attractive option. This study emphasizes the importance of a collaborative effort among various stakeholders in the entrepreneurial ecosystem to unlock the entrepreneurial potential among women.

Author Biographies

Thérèse Schmutz

Thérèse Schmutz is a researcher at University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland. Her research focuses on entrepreneurship, sustainability and innovation.

Dario Meyer, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland

Dario Meyer is a researcher in Entrepreneurship at University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland. His research focuses on entrepreneurship education and training, entrepreneurial ecosystems and business model innovation.

Daniel Merz

Daniel Merz, Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, is a project manager in the field of smart traffic management systems. During his MBA studies at the FHNW, he dealt with female entrepreneurship as part of his master's thesis and examined the pre-foundation process of women in Switzerland.

Rolf Meyer

Prof. Dr. Rolf Meyer is a professor for entrepreneurship at University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland. He focuses in his research on business models, innovation, entrepreneurship and emerging markets.

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Published

2024-09-20