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A qualitative investigation into perceived barriers experienced by European female agri-food entrepreneurs

Author

Listed:
  • Maria McDonagh

    (Atlantic Technological University)

  • Tansy Ryan

    (Atlantic Technological University)

  • Aisling Moran

    (Atlantic Technological University)

  • Lisa Ryan

    (Atlantic Technological University)

Abstract

Purpose Agri-food systems in Europe are predominantly male dominated. Female food entrepreneurs can play a key role in the development of novel, sustainable food products. The aim of the present study was to gain an increased understanding of the various barriers which female agri-food entrepreneurs situated in rural areas perceive as hindrances to their entrepreneurial growth and development and their opinions on mentorship programmes. Methodology Seven separate focus groups comprising of a total of 25 female participants were carried out with agri-food entrepreneurs throughout Europe (Ireland, Belgium, Poland, Italy). Discussions were semi-structured and revolved around individuals’ perceptions of the support received from their surrounding infrastructure and their opinions on barriers and enablers for entrepreneurship development. A reflective thematic analysis was conducted following verbatim transcription of the conversations from the focus groups. Findings Three major themes were identified. Barriers to business development included the lack of adequate financial support and the frustrations experienced with the complexity of funding applications. Socio-cultural support was oftentimes lacking. Participants were aware of the benefits of an online presence to develop their business but lacked confidence in their digital abilities. Few female entrepreneurs were aware of mentorship programmes, and most were unsure what this practice would entail. These findings highlight a range of issues in need of addressing to improve the infrastructure surrounding female agri-food entrepreneurs throughout Europe.

Suggested Citation

  • Maria McDonagh & Tansy Ryan & Aisling Moran & Lisa Ryan, 2024. "A qualitative investigation into perceived barriers experienced by European female agri-food entrepreneurs," Journal of Global Entrepreneurship Research, Springer;UNESCO Chair in Entrepreneurship, vol. 14(1), pages 1-11, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:jglont:v:14:y:2024:i:1:d:10.1007_s40497-024-00377-5
    DOI: 10.1007/s40497-024-00377-5
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Entrepreneurship; Perceptions; Barriers; Mentorship; Supports; Female entrepreneurship;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • Q10 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Agriculture - - - General
    • Q13 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Agriculture - - - Agricultural Markets and Marketing; Cooperatives; Agribusiness

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