Gendered Participation Patterns in a Business Incubator Program: Theoretical Explanations from the Literature

Abstract

This literature review explores some theoretical explanations for gendered participation patterns in business incubator programs. Business incubators, as defined in this report, are organizations or programs designed to support early-stage businesses and entrepreneurs through the often-difficult startup phase. The context of this literature arises from the participation patterns observed in BLK Owned’s business incubator program, known as the Trailblazer Program. The Trailblazer Program supports early-stage Black entrepreneurs by providing necessary supports such as skills development, mentorship and community connections. In this program, BLK Owned experiences an estimated 80% female and a 20% male participation rate. This participation rate is significant because in 2018, Statistics Canada observed that “70.4% of Black business owners are men, and 29.6% are women." This research, with a particular focus on women, provides insight into theoretical understandings behind why certain populations are likely to participate in business incubator programs.