“Why Won’t You Support Me?”: How Black Women Business Owners Respond to Limited Social Capital

• In Event: 4407 - Social Capital: Tie Mobilization

Abstract

Past research has examined how social capital positively benefits business owners. Access to diverse social networks, social support, and helpful resources make running a viable business easier. Although literature points to these benefits as factors for operating a successful business, Black women, often, do not have these levels of support. Research specifically related to social capital and the opportunities for social mobility, for Black women business owners, is limited. Using in-depth interviews, the current study critically examines how Black women’s lack of social capital challenges their experiences as owners. Due to limited social support and less diverse networks, Black women business owners must use strategies to overcome their lack of resources. Through changing their social networks, strategically targeting professional groups, and remaining active in their communities, respondents are able to circumvent challenges related to social capital. This study suggests that Black women must perform more work to overcome their network and support challenges, and these factors directly impact their businesses.

Author

• Taylor Jackson, Florida State University