Gender, entrepreneurship and access to finance in patriarchal context

Purpose This paper aims to examine how Nigeria's unique patriarchal landscape influences entrepreneurship and access to finance from a social feminist perspective. Using the gendered lens, the paper addresses the current research gap by explaining how the social construction of gender differently affects males' and females' entrepreneurship and access to financing in a resource-constrained environment. Design/methodology/approach Data are drawn from semi-structured interviews that examine the interconnections and interdependencies of social forces within pre-existing patriarchal structures. In total, 30 entrepreneurs based in Nigeria were selected for the sample, comprising 16 female and 14 male entrepreneurs, using a purposive sampling approach. We also considered two distinct sectors – female-dominated and male-dominated – to explore the interplay between gender and sector in the experiences of these entrepreneurs. Findings Findings demonstrate that their entrepreneurial process is characterised by a deep set of gendered constructions, which policy alone may struggle to change. Nevertheless, the personal agency of women entrepreneurs and their supportive network and “breadwinner expectations” faced by their male counterparts are disrupting the underlying gender inequalities. Findings also reveal that the sector of operation is a significant factor in accessing finance, particularly for women entrepreneurs. Originality/value The findings highlight the significant impact that various societal forces have on the multifaceted entrepreneurial journey of male and female entrepreneurs in Nigeria. The study extends beyond current research, which often views women solely as representatives of gendered subjects, by incorporating men's perspectives on entrepreneurship and access to finance.