Globalisation effects on networks in the GCC : exploring entrepreneurial networks in Kuwait

al-Mutawa, Nada S.

Abstract

Although this paper’s focus is women business networks in the Gulf state of Kuwait, it locates the discussion in the broad field of globalisation studies, which can usefully be defined as the flow of trade, capital and people across frontiers, facilitated by different kinds of infrastructure, as well as forms of interconnectedness. As globalisation is increasing the dependency on economic actors and policy makers in a world of rapidly growing businesses that are reshaping the global arena, it is believed that scarcity of networks and lack of direct access to resources, information and support are barriers that many business encounter and women entrepreneurs face them more acutely. An important form of interconnectedness lies within the formation of networks of all types, where global, regional and local business networks have become hubs for entrepreneurs, particularly in Kuwait. Networks are rapidly growing in Kuwait, some are initiated in order to increase financial abilities of women and an example of that is Alghalia women network which was established in 2010 and membership is for women and by invitation only. Its mission is to create financial awareness amongst women in Kuwaiti society. Another is ‘Proud to be Kuwaiti’, a women and men entrepreneurial network, as well as Kuwait economic society female business network and other emergent networks. Yet, in spite of the growth in number of such networks, women entrepreneurs still face barriers. This research focuses on women entrepreneurs networking within local business networks. It uncovers various characteristics of networks, and through qualitative analysis, the reasons behind joining networks, barriers encountered and benefits gained. It does this through in-depth interaction with sixteen women entrepreneurs who are members of major networks. The research examines motivations behind women who join networks, the barriers women entrepreneurs face while networking, as well as benefits gained through different business stages.

Citation

al-Mutawa, N. S. (2014). Globalisation effects on networks in the GCC : exploring entrepreneurial networks in Kuwait

• Working Paper Type: Discussion Paper
• Publication Date: Mar 1, 2014
• Deposit Date: Apr 13, 2016
• Publicly Available Date: Apr 13, 2016
• Public URL: https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/1699773
• Publisher URL: http://www.dur.ac.uk/alsabah/publications/insights/