Capacity for gender equity initiatives: a multiple case study investigation of national sport organisations

Abstract

To better understand mechanisms for gender equity in sport, the critical elements of capacity of Canadian national sport organisations (NSOs) to implement gender equity initiatives, and the relative strengths and challenges of those elements, were investigated. Environmental factors perceived to influence that capacity were also explored. The study was framed by Hall et al.’s (2003) multidimensional model of organisational capacity. Instrumental case studies were used to examine and compare the capacity of three NSOs engaged in addressing gender equity in their sport through their respective initiatives designed to increase the engagement of women in sport as athletes, coaches, and officials. Semi-structured interviews (n = 15) were conducted with board members and staff across the three NSOs. Several common capacity strengths (e.g., knowledgeable and experienced staff, dedicated funding) and challenges (e.g., limited staff, constraints in external communication) were identified. Capacity elements unique to each NSO were also uncovered. Environmental factors influencing the NSOs’ capacity to implement their respective gender equity initiatives included the broad political climate, access to volunteers, and availability of additional funding sources . The findings address the call for further evidence of critical organisational practices for enacting gender equity, with a particular focus on NSOs, and framed by a multidimensional model of organisational capacity and environmental influences. The findings have implications for being aware of the capacity of NSOs to address government policy and directives for gender equity in sport, and for maintaining and building capacity to implement gender equity initiatives.