Exploring the effects of patriarchy on woman entrepreneurs in the manufacturing sector though a social feminist lens

Abstract

Women entrepreneurs play an under-valued, but critical role in the expansion of economies, especially in developing countries. However their participation in male-dominated arenas like manufacturing is severely limited by patriarchal attitudes. This research investigates the impact of patriarchal norms on women-owned firms in the manufacturing sector. Using social feminist theory (SFT) as a theoretical lens of analysis, the study explores lived experiences to reveal the character of patriarchy. Qualitative research methods were applied to capture data from purposefully selected female entrepreneurs building manufacturing businesses. The results show that structural impediments, such as limited access to capital, restricted industrial networks, and cultural biases are accentuated for women by patriarchy. This hampers the growth and sustainability of woman-led businesses. The research also identifies the efforts by women to mitigate patriarchal restraints. Interventions include use of own financial resources, building social capital, implementing flexible leadership strategies, and accessing informal mentoring networks. The findings add to the wider discussion on gender and entrepreneurship, emphasising the need of inclusive policy measures such as gender-sensitive financial instruments and specialised entrepreneurial assistance programs. By combining theoretical ideas with empirical evidence, this study contributes to scholarship on women's entrepreneurial agency and the structural changes required to build a more equitable business environment.