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Bourdieu’s non-material forms of capital: Implications for start-up policy

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  • Robert Lee
  • Eleanor Shaw

Abstract

The role of Bourdieu’s non-material forms of capital (cultural, social and symbolic) in the entrepreneurial process has received little dedicated research attention. Similarly, the link between occupationally distinct entrepreneurship and accumulation of non-material capitals is understudied. Addressing this, we examine the non-material capitals of different nascent entrepreneurs by occupational classification who participated on two enterprise-training programmes funded by the 1997–2010 Labour Government; each with considerably different foci. Findings demonstrate that professional and higher technician entrepreneurs possess valuable non-material capitals, in contrast to non-professional entrepreneurs. Against the backdrop of recent business enterprise policy, findings suggest that policy-makers should prioritise focused support that nurtures the valuable, productive non-material capitals of professional and higher technician entrepreneurs. Furthermore, initiatives should be tailored to improve the less distinguished non-material capitals of non-professional entrepreneurs.

Suggested Citation

  • Robert Lee & Eleanor Shaw, 2016. "Bourdieu’s non-material forms of capital: Implications for start-up policy," Environment and Planning C, , vol. 34(8), pages 1734-1758, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:envirc:v:34:y:2016:i:8:p:1734-1758
    DOI: 10.1177/0263774X16638850
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