| Abstract: |
Access to external capital is crucial for the success of entrepreneurs, particularly social entrepreneurs who merge commercial and social goals. These ventures often struggle to attract investors due to their unconventional profit models, and in Türkiye, gender significantly influences financing outcomes, compounding existing challenges. This research explores the gender-based barriers faced by women social entrepreneurs (WSEs) and men social entrepreneurs (MSEs) in accessing external capital within Türkiye's social entrepreneurship ecosystem. Adopting a quantitative approach and based on survey data collected from 104 social entrepreneurs, the study compares the types and extent of challenges encountered, the impact of gender on financing strategies, and how gender norms and perceived biased investor attitudes shape capital access. Statistical methods, including Independent Sample t-Tests, Chisquare tests and Pearson Correlation Tests, were applied for data analysis. The findings reveal that, WSEs face more substantial and multifaceted gender barriers than men counterparts. Perceived gender norms and biased investor attitudes influence their financing decisions. Women are less likely to apply for external capital due to low confidence in their financial knowledge. Increasing gender diversity in investment decision-making and enhancing gender-sensitive support structures like networking, mentoring, and financial training can promote a more inclusive funding environment. To improve access to financing, the study recommends developing inclusive policies, increasing gender diversity on investment committees, and enhancing support mechanisms for networking and financial literacy. While the study offers empirical insights into gendered investment dynamics in Türkiye and proposes practical, policy-relevant solutions, its findings are limited by its national focus, modest sample size, and reliance on self-reported data. Nonetheless, it suggests future research on cross-regional comparisons, investor behavior, and alternative financing models to promote a more inclusive and sustainable social entrepreneurship ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |