The role of religion in the formation of trust-based relationships amongst entrepreneurs

Abstract

Prior research has alluded to the link between the constructs of religion, trust, access to resources and entrepreneurial activity, with little research done holistically and in a South African context. This study aimed to explore the role of religion amongst homogeneous religious groups in the formation of trust-based relationships amongst entrepreneurs, thereby developing social capital and enabling access to key resources for entrepreneurial support. A qualitative, exploratory research study with 19 entrepreneurs from Hindu, Jewish and Muslim religious groups were conducted using semi-structured interviews. The interview responses were analysed through a thematic analysis of the data collected to explore constructs identified through a Social Capital Theory conceptual model. The study found that religious behaviour leads to social cohesiveness, allowing trust relationships to form. The study further found that religious trust relationships act as a form of social capital for some religious groups, providing access to resources which encourage and support entrepreneurial activity. This study contributes to the field of entrepreneurship by highlighting the opportunity for entrepreneurs to engage their religious trust networks to access important resources to assist in the start-up, growth and sustainability of their business.