Research

Methodology

FEMENA employs a mixed-methods approach to capture the complexity of women's entrepreneurship across diverse cultural and institutional contexts. The project combines quantitative surveys, which allow for the measurement and comparison of large-scale data, with in-depth qualitative interviews to gather individual narratives and perspectives. Comparative case studies are also conducted to identify commonalities and differences between entrepreneurial experiences in Asia and Europe. Ethnographic fieldwork provides direct observation of local practices and dynamics, while institutional analysis and policy evaluation examine the legal and regulatory framework influencing women entrepreneurs. This combination of approaches ensures a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the opportunities and obstacles encountered.

Theoretical Frameworks

The FEMENA project draws on several complementary theoretical frameworks. The capabilities approach, developed by Amartya Sen, provides a perspective focused on the real freedoms and opportunities available to women for entrepreneurship. Institutional theory analyzes how formal and informal rules shape entrepreneurial practices. Gender and development studies shed light on the specific inequalities and constraints faced by women in different social and economic contexts. Finally, entrepreneurial ecosystem theory highlights the importance of networks, resources, and interactions between actors in supporting or hindering women's entrepreneurship.

Approach and Key Questions

FEMENA seeks to understand the factors that determine entrepreneurial opportunities for women and to analyze how these factors vary across cultural, political, and institutional contexts in Asia and Europe. The project also examines the impact of public policies on women's entrepreneurship, identifying those that either facilitate or hinder the creation and development of women-led businesses. These questions lead to concrete recommendations for supporting women's economic empowerment across diverse institutional and cultural environments.