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Supporting Female Rural Entrepreneurship: A Case Study of WiRE (Women in Rural Enterprise)

Exploring Rural Enterprise: New Perspectives On Research, Policy & Practice

ISBN: 978-1-78441-112-1, eISBN: 978-1-78441-109-1

Publication date: 4 August 2014

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this chapter is to evidence the requirements for successfully facilitating female entrepreneurship in rural areas.

Methodology

Using a case study approach based on WiRE, the chapter outlines the practical support that has evolved from research into the complexities of supporting women’s rural business activity. It provides a brief history of the WiRE organisation and presents the findings of a UK West Midlands European Social Fund sponsored project.

Findings

Female rural entrepreneurs contribute to the regional economy; however, practical business support needs often become blurred with personal demands, such as caring roles, particularly with respect to farm-based enterprises.

Research limitations

Findings are concentrated around one regional case study. Further research could make comparisons across a range of similar projects.

Practical implications

The case study highlights the importance of location and circumstance in the development of FREs. It provides a clear research-based template for both rural policy makers and support agencies that should be used to inform the design of future supports for FREs.

Social implications

FREs are important to the rural economy and have a valuable contribution to make to economic development, both in terms of wealth creation and employment. However, the complexity of circumstantial, community and family factors affects the success of support offerings, highlighting the need for plaiting support.

Originality/value

WiRE is the only ongoing support organisation for FREs. There is a paucity of research around support to FREs, which this chapter aims to rectify.

Keywords

Acknowledgements

Acknowledgements

This project was funded by the European Social Fund, Advantage West Midlands and Harper Adams University.

Citation

Warren-Smith, I. (2014), "Supporting Female Rural Entrepreneurship: A Case Study of WiRE (Women in Rural Enterprise)", Exploring Rural Enterprise: New Perspectives On Research, Policy & Practice (Contemporary Issues in Entrepreneurship Research, Vol. 4), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 215-232. https://doi.org/10.1108/S2040-724620140000004010

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2014 Emerald Group Publishing Limited