Formal & Informal Institutional Factors Affecting the Implementation of Social Entrepreneurial Activities of Women

This study investigates the role of environment on implementation of social entrepreneurial activities based on North’s institutional approach.Both formal and informal institutional factors influencing the implementation of the social entrepreneurial activities have been identified through a qualitative study using semi structured interviews from eight social women entrepreneurs in Tehran. Results point to "social network" as a non-formal institutional factor and "support mechanisms" as formal institutional factor influencing the implementation of socialentrepreneurial activities of women. These results could help policy makers in developing supportive policies forwomen social entrepreneurs. Also, help them to have better relationship with other social entrepreneurs, universities, academic centers and volunteers.