Johann Landsberg, Ketlareng Polori, Stephan van der Merwe
Abstract
While the World Bank ranks South Africa at the top of the list concerning the growth of female entrepreneurs worldwide in 2019, it seems females are still in the minority regarding networking and running a business. This study explores the role of entrepreneurial networking in female entrepreneurial growth. The study employs a qualitative approach, drawing on eight purposive sampled high-profile female entrepreneurs in South Africa. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed through coding and categorisation using the thematic analysis approach. The results suggest that although networking assists with financial, moral, and other material supports, most female entrepreneurs in South Africa are not aware of such networks. Hence, they are finding it difficult to improve their business performance. The study recommended that the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (Dtic) and other stakeholders should continue working and encouraging South African female entrepreneurs to join and actively participate in entrepreneurial networks. This research contributes to the body of knowledge on female entrepreneurs in South Arica. This study has implications for building relationships for networking, as it is an excellent link for opening doors for business opportunities, growth and running a successful business.