How our research supports inclusive entrepreneurship
The Women and Inclusive Entrepreneurship Research Alliance (WIERA) is a Deakin Business School research alliance in partnership with Symbiosis International University in India and Neoma Business School. We provide a platform for academics and researchers in Australia and internationally to conduct purpose-driven, solution-focused and impactful research that addresses current and emerging challenges within entrepreneurship, innovation, inclusive entrepreneurship and social entrepreneurship.
Our mission
International and Interdisciplinary research network leveraging academic excellence to address pressing social issues related to women and inclusive entrepreneurship.
Our vision
Our alliance empowers researchers in the areas of women and inclusive entrepreneurship by fostering a dynamic and collaborative environment that nurtures new ideas, projects and funding opportunities.
Our research areas
Our focus is on women entrepreneurs along with those who face multifaceted challenges, including economic, sociocultural, cognitive, physical and emotional obstacles. We conduct research across the following areas:
- women/gender aspects of entrepreneurship
- inclusive entrepreneurship
- social entrepreneurship
- entrepreneurial wellbeing
- innovation and creativity
- vulnerable, disadvantaged or underdog entrepreneurs – who face economic, sociocultural, cognitive, physical and emotional challenges
- entrepreneurial behaviour and emotions
- informal entrepreneurship
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Our researchers
WIERA brings together expertise from researchers and industry leaders to enhance theoretical and practical knowledge, informing policy and industry practices while advancing a deeper understanding of how entrepreneurial endeavours can benefit individuals and society.
Associate Professor Dhara Shah is the director of WIERA and director of partnerships and engagement for public sector with the Deakin Business School. She is an interdisciplinary, innovative academic and an expert in gender equality, women and underdog entrepreneurship, career growth, expatriation and inclusive leadership.
Dr Rakesh Pati is a senior lecturer and the deputy director of WIERA. Rakesh’s research and teaching interests are in the areas of Strategy, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship.
Dr Madhura Bedarkar is an associate professor and the deputy director of administration in Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune, Symbiosis International (Deemed University).
Dr Akriti Chaubey is an assistant professor of management at Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (Pune), Symbiosis International (Deemed University).
Bisrat A. Misganaw is an associate professor of strategy and entrepreneurship at NEOMA Business School, France and the coordinator of the social entrepreneurship and informal economies.
Rose Bote is an assistant professor in the people and organisations department at NEOMA Business School.
Our partnerships
We work with not-for-profit, philanthropic, government and industry partners, as well as other universities and academic institutions to to investigate entrepreneurship, innovation, inclusive entrepreneurship and social entrepreneurship. Some of our partners include:
Contact us
Stay in touch with us to hear about the latest alumni opportunities, research news and much more. Have a question? Get in touch with the team. Follow WIERA on LinkedIn.