Successful relationships in non-EU female immigrant businesses

Purpose - This study aims to explore the role of intellectual capital, particularly relational capital, in the success of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) owned by non-EU immigrant women in Italy. It highlights the growing prevalence of female-owned foreign enterprises and proposes an analytical framework for understanding the significance of relational capital in this context. Design/methodology/approach – The research uses a qualitative case study methodology, using a structured questionnaire based on the C.A.O.S. model. This model provides a framework for analyzing the importance of relationships in the development of immigrant women-owned businesses, focusing on key factors such as personal attributes, operational environment, organizational aspects and entrepreneurial motivations. Findings – This study reveals a significant link between relational capital and the success of businesses owned by non-EU immigrant women. The key factors examined include the personal attributes of the entrepreneur (C), operational environment (A), organizational aspects and managerial approach (O) and entrepreneurial motivations (S). The analysis, informed by detailed interviews, underscores the pivotal role of informal networks, such as those with family, friends and community members, particularly during the critical startup phase. These networks provide essential support in the form of motivation, financial resources and practical assistance.