Is there a place for gender questions in studies on entrepreneurship, or for entrepreneurship questions in gender studies?

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to add to the diversity of gender and entrepreneurship studies by presenting the (lived experience) perspective on the development of research on women as entrepreneurs.

Design/methodology/approach

An essay built on personal reflections on the development of the field since the 1980s.

Findings

Research on entrepreneurship has shifted toward quantitative studies and the paper format, leading to fragmented research. Research on gender shows another trend, where empirical data have become less central – “women” as individuals are to a large extent not discussed. The authors conclude that the field of gender and entrepreneurship, therefore, is a fruitful arena to perform research in as long as the physical women are not neglected.

Originality/value

Building on the lived experience for almost 40 years as researchers of women as entrepreneurs, the perspective contributes to the understanding of the development of the field.

Citation

Holmquist, C. and Sundin, E. (2019), "Is there a place for gender questions in studies on entrepreneurship, or for entrepreneurship questions in gender studies?", International Journal of Gender and Entrepreneurship, Vol. 12 No. 1, pp. 89-101. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJGE-05-2019-0091