Bridging voids: constraints on Hispanic entrepreneurs building social capital. (1st January 2011)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Clarke, Ruth; Chandra, Ramdas
• Is Part Of: International journal of entrepreneurship and small business. Volume 14:Number 2(2011)
• Page Start: 286
• Page End: 302
• Publication Date: 2011-01-01
• Subjects: entrepreneurs -- immigrants -- Hispanic -- social capital -- bridging voids -- small business -- networks -- cultural marginality; Entrepreneurship -- Periodicals; Small business -- Management -- Periodicals; 658.42105
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1476-1297

Abstract

This study uses social capital theory and strategic entrepreneurship theory to examine the extent to which Hispanic immigrant entrepreneurs create and employ social capital in their firms. Using a modified instrument originally created by the World Bank to measure social capital, we evaluate the amount and different dimensions of social capital possessed by a sample of entrepreneurs with mid to small-sized businesses in a limited geographic area within the USA. We find low levels of social capital among our respondents. To the extent that social capital exists, the majority of it seems to be derived from Hispanic sources rather than non-Hispanic sources. Further, we find some limited evidence that non-Hispanic driven social capital positively affects growth and internationalisation. In light of these findings we discuss the issue of bridging and social capital development.