The 2024 Institute for Small Business and Entrepreneurship (ISBE) conference was an inspiring and productive gathering, bringing together scholars, practitioners, and thought leaders from around the globe. The Women Research Network proudly contributed to the conference with six groundbreaking papers across diverse tracks, a testament to the broad scope and impact of our research. We are thrilled to announce that two of our papers were nominated for four awards, and we won in two categories: Best Paper in the Entrepreneurship in Minority Groups track and Best Paper in the International Entrepreneurship track. This recognition underscores our commitment to high-quality research that addresses critical, intersectional topics within entrepreneurship.
Our Diverse Contributions Across ISBE Tracks
Our team presented research in multiple ISBE tracks, highlighting the diversity of issues we address, from gender and enterprise to the intersection of religion and entrepreneurship. Here’s a closer look at each of our contributions:
Gender and Enterprise Track:
Paper Title: Sustainability and Wellbeing Synergy: The Impact of Climate Action on the Livelihood of Women in SSA
Contributors: Bridget Irene, Daisy Nwaozuzu, Elona Ndlovu, Bisola Ariyo
This paper examines how climate action efforts impact the livelihoods of women across Sub-Saharan Africa. Through in-depth case studies, it highlights the synergy between sustainability practices and improved wellbeing, presenting a vital link between environmental action and economic resilience for women in marginalized communities.
Research Methods Track:
Paper Title: Decolonial Research Methodologies: Embedding Ubuntu Philosophy in Data Collection Practices
Contributors: Bridget Irene, Julius Irene, Samuel Ebie
With a focus on methodology, this paper advocates for a decolonial approach to research. By embedding the Ubuntu philosophy—”I am because we are”—in data collection practices, the authors present an inclusive, community-centred approach that challenges Western-centric paradigms and fosters respect for the perspectives and contexts of African communities.
Paper Title: Navigating the Habitus: An Exploration of Contested Space in the Tension Between Home and Work
Contributors: Bridget Irene, Joan Lockyer, Sunita Dewitt, Daisy Nwaozuzu, Omowunmi Adeola-Omole
This paper delves into the tension between home and work life, exploring how women entrepreneurs navigate these contested spaces. Through a critical examination of habitus, it reveals the social and cultural factors shaping women’s entrepreneurial experiences, especially in the context of traditional roles.
International Entrepreneurship Track:
Paper Title: Building the Kingdom of God or Man? Heterodoxy and Legitimisation in African Neo-Pentecostal Entrepreneurialism
Contributors: Bridget Irene, Doyin Olorunfemi, Huriye Yeroz, Kwame Sekyere, Daisy Nwaozuzu, Chioma Onoshakpor, Tolulope Ibukun, Tabitha Sindani
In this award-winning paper, our researchers examine the relationship between Neo-Pentecostalism and entrepreneurialism in Africa. It analyses how African entrepreneurs navigate legitimacy and heterodoxy in their ventures, providing insight into the unique, faith-driven motivations that shape their business practices.
Entrepreneurship in Minority Groups Track:
Paper Title: Neo-Pentecostalism and Entrepreneurialism in the African Context: A Fusion of Religion and Capitalism?
Contributors: Bridget Irene, Julius Irene, Eric Ofosu, Joan Lockyer, Dina Nziku
This second award-winning paper dives deeper into Neo-Pentecostalism’s influence on African entrepreneurship, examining how religious and capitalist ideologies intersect. The findings reveal an emerging entrepreneurial paradigm that blends spiritual goals with economic growth, redefining traditional business models in African contexts.
Award Wins and Recognition
Winning the Best Paper in the Entrepreneurship in Minority Groups track and the Best Paper in the International Entrepreneurship track is a significant achievement for the Women Research Network. These awards highlight our commitment to producing research that not only explores new frontiers but also addresses complex issues that resonate with underrepresented communities and emerging economies.
Building Networks and Collaborations
Beyond presenting our research, ISBE 2024 provided an invaluable platform to network with other researchers, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations. Connecting with scholars who share our commitment to gender, inclusion, and entrepreneurship in global contexts allowed us to broaden our perspectives and gain insights that will fuel future projects.
Moving Forward
We leave ISBE 2024 with both pride in our accomplishments and a renewed commitment to pushing the boundaries of research that uplifts women entrepreneurs and minority groups. Our research at this conference underscores our mission to influence policies and practices that support sustainable, inclusive growth for women in entrepreneurship globally.
Stay tuned as we continue to share the knowledge and impact that emerged from this year’s conference. Here’s to many more milestones and transformative dialogues!
