Italian Female Social Entrepreneurship and Management: An Explorative Study on Social Cooperatives

Abstract

Purpose: The main aim of this paper is to individuate the elements that have influenced and/or are influencing the constitution and the activity of a sample of Italian female social cooperative, and the relationship between gender and social enterprise’s internal organization.

Methodology/Approach: This is an exploratory study based on a survey of a purposive sample of Italian Social Cooperatives (SCs). The selected SCs are led by women, in order to focus on motivations, constraints and opportunities behind the foundation of the social enterprise and the relationship among female gender, activity and organization.

Originality/Value: Albeit with initial insights, the study can contribute, with a country-specific analysis, to the debate on the interconnections amidst institutional environment, cultural and social elements and the development of the female entrepreneurship, with a focus on third sector.

Practical Implications: Research findings could help to highlight opportunities and constraints related to the phenomenon on female social entrepreneurship.