Towards Inclusive Entrepreneurship: Addressing Constraining and Contributing Factors for Women Entrepreneurs in South Africa

Patrick Ebong Ebewo (), Cecile Schultz and Mphoreng Magdeline Mmako
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Patrick Ebong Ebewo: Centre for Entrepreneurship Development, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria 0183, South Africa
Cecile Schultz: Department of People Management and Development, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria 0183, South Africa
Mphoreng Magdeline Mmako: Department of People Management and Development, Tshwane University of Technology, Polokwane 0699, South Africa

Administrative Sciences, 2025, vol. 15, issue 1, 1-20

Abstract: Women entrepreneurs are increasingly recognised as pivotal contributors to economic growth, poverty alleviation, and employment generation, particularly in developing economies like South Africa. This study explores the contributing and constraining factors that shape the future of women’s entrepreneurship in South Africa through the lens of Institutional Theory. Using a qualitative methodology, in-depth interviews were conducted with nine (9) women entrepreneurs affiliated with a Centre for Entrepreneurship Development. The findings highlight key enabling factors, such as mentorship, education, supportive policies, collaboration, and government intervention programmes, which equip women entrepreneurs with the skills, networks, and resources needed to thrive. However, significant barriers persist, including financial exclusion, societal norms, ineffective policies, and psychological constraints such as low entrepreneurial self-efficacy. The study concludes that aligning institutional support across the regulatory, normative, and cultural-cognitive dimensions is essential for fostering an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. Recommendations include simplifying access to funding, expanding mentorship opportunities, and addressing systemic cultural and policy barriers to create a more equitable and supportive environment for women entrepreneurs.

Keywords: institutional theory; entrepreneurial barriers; government policies; small and medium enterprises (SMEs); self-efficacy; women’s economic participation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: L M M0 M1 M10 M11 M12 M14 M15 M16 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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