Female & Male Entrepreneurs' Perceived Value of Formal Networks: Are There Differences?

Authors

  • Debra S. Malewicki University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
  • Cathleen A. (Folker) Leitch Wilfrid Laurier University

Abstract

Since entrepreneurs play a crucial role in job creation, and evidence suggests that networks play an important role in both facilitating new businesses and helping existing businesses grow, a strong incentive exists to better understand and support entrepreneurial network development. In this study, we examine the differential values perceived by female and male entrepreneurs of entrepreneurial network organizations (ENOs). Women perceived a higher economic benefit (instrumental value) from the network than men, as well as a higher affective value. There were no significant differences on perceived normative value from ENO's.

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2011-05-21

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Female & Male Entrepreneurs’ Perceived Value of Formal Networks: Are There Differences?. (2011). Journal of Small Business Strategy (archive Only), 22(1), 1-20. https://libjournals.mtsu.edu/index.php/jsbs/article/view/152