Female social entrepreneurs in India: familial embeddedness in an emerging economy

Abstract

Purpose This study examines how the familial relationships shape the success of female social entrepreneurs (FSEs) in emerging economies, with a focus on middle-class India. This study looks at the capital generated by such familial relationships and how this gets mobilised. FSEs' familial relationships play an important role in the decision-making and enhancing the financial independence of the female social entrepreneur. Design/methodology/approach Fifteen in-depth semi-structured interviews with FSEs were conducted in Delhi, India, in order to examine the role of familial relationships in the development of the FSEs. Findings This study reveals that the FSEs’ familial relationships – with father, mother, siblings, paternal/maternal grandparents, husband and in-laws, as well as extended family play an important role in the decision making of the female social entrepreneur. Their contribution in any form of capital – social, cultural, symbolic, financial; is instrumental to their growth. The fathers are seen to have supported their daughters directly/indirectly through meeting their daughters’ needs. The mothers provided for their emotional needs. The role of the husband was as supporter, protector and confidant. These relationships enhanced the financial independence of the FSE. Research limitations/implications This study primarily uses qualitative data from in-depth interviews, highlighting familial relationships' impact on FSEs. While offering unique insights not easily captured by surveys, the study has limitations. A self-selection bias may exist, as participants likely had a favourable view of the topic, with few discussing failed ventures. Additionally, interviewees were from privileged backgrounds, which may not represent all social entrepreneurs. The findings provide insights into family influence at a specific stage, but further research could explore how these relationships evolve as the enterprise grows, ideally through longitudinal study for greater depth. Practical implications There are implications from this study for the policymakers, researchers and educators. For the policymakers, the transformation of gender dynamics may have significant policy implications. For educational regulators there may be a necessity to incorporate a curriculum emphasising women's issues, fostering progressive attitudes from a young age. There can also be employment practices that may require enhanced paternity leave and stronger workplace equality regulations. Women's support services could see improvements, with better counselling facilities and enhanced access to maternal and reproductive healthcare. Originality/value The conceptual model derived from the results of this qualitative study illustrates: (1) the Relational Support Structure of FSEs Across Marital and Paternal Households and (2) the Familial Capital Mobilisation and Conversion Model. These models advance understanding of the managerial and strategic implications of familial embeddedness in FSEs in emerging economies, offering insights for both scholars and practitioners.