Gendering Entrepreneurship Enhancing Space

Abstract

This paper contributes to research on gendering of organizational spaces by analyzing the gendering of space and spacing of gender through the novel concept of assemblage. Assemblage highlights the connecting, dismantling, modifying and reconnecting of heterogeneous elements to gain agency. The study is based on an ethnographic study of Helsinki Think Company, the creative entrepreneurship enhancing space of the University of Helsinki. The study analyzed how space and gender emerge in and through the assembling and reassembling of the widely used practice of using inspirational speakers to promote entrepreneurship. The study argues that the popular way of assembling the practice is inherently masculine in nature. The study shows, however, that by modifying and reassembling the sociomaterial elements of the practice a feminine space emerges where fluid gender performances are appreciated while dominant masculinity performance are discouraged. The study, thus, contributes the literature by highlighting the reproductive and well as subversive potential of assemblages in the production of space and gender that has previously gone unnoticed. It further encourages practitioners as well as academics to consider the unintended gender implications of spatial design and practices.