Women's entrepreneurship through collective institutional shaping

The purpose of this paper is to develop an empirically informed framework to analyse how the collective shaping of institutions facilitates women’s entrepreneurship. Despite extensive literature on the impact of institutions on women’s entrepreneurship, there is limited knowledge about how diverse actors can purposively and collectively influence institutional change to create a more supportive business environment. Using the concept of collective institutional entrepreneurship, this paper explores collaborative activities within a women’s entrepreneurial ecosystem aimed at transforming institutions that constrain their entrepreneurial development. Data were gathered from semi-structured interviews with 40 participants from six groups: women entrepreneurs, government-led organisations, non-governmental organisations, business associations, financial organisations, and higher education institutions. These actors represent development programmes in Bangladesh designed to promote women’s entrepreneurship. The findings present a process model outlining steps involved in shaping institutions, including gathering actors, utilising financial resources and social positions, and seeking legitimacy for women’s entrepreneurship. The model highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to strengthen collective efforts while identifying barriers that may impact sustainable outcomes. By capturing perspectives from diverse actors and examining programmes addressing various institutional constraints, this paper offers a holistic view of women’s entrepreneurship development.