Female Entrepreneurship and Business Consortiums: Prospective Solutions for Argentina’s Economic Challenges

Abstract

As Argentine policy makers attempt to promote and sustain development after the economic crisis that emerged at the turn of the century, the role of business consortiums merits particular attention—especially with regard to assisting female entrepreneurs in business venturing. After reviewing the literature on gender in the marketplace, this article explores the results of a qualitative case study conducted in Buenos Aires, Argentina, which focuses on the role of women in business consortiums. The study compiles and analyzes data from 314 business consortiums and seventy interviews of business owners and managers in Argentina. Five primary roles of business consortiums emerged from this field research: (1) training on business operations and practices; (2) collaboration on projects that promote common interests; (3) forums for idea and experience sharing; (4) opportunities for networking; and (5) resources for aid and support. Further analysis of existing consortiums in Argentina reveals that businesswomen are less likely to participate in consortium training and activities than their male counterparts, and that this gender dichotomy could be correlated with a lack of female consortium leaders. Policy recommendations are put forth that focus on public and private sector efforts to boost Argentine entrepreneurs’ membership in local business consortiums and strengthening female representation in consortium leadership.1