Context
Access to funding is not a neutral process. Even within the social and solidarity economy, gender-related factors can operate in unconscious and cumulative ways. In this context, Seira has promoted a diagnosis as a self-assessment exercise to analyze how this perspective is already present in its support services and internal processes.
The study
The diagnosis analyzes sociocultural, structural, and relational barriers based on internal data, surveys, interviews with supported cooperatives, and a participatory process involving the technical team and governance bodies. The work was carried out by the cooperative L’Esberla.
Key ideas
The study shows that gender inequalities are less a result of direct discrimination than of invisible barriers and cultural imaginaries. At the same time, the diagnosis confirms that Seira’s support model—based on proximity, financial education, listening, and trust—is well oriented and aligned with criteria of equity and gender justice. This approach effectively helps reduce the identified barriers and strengthens the financial autonomy of organizations, especially those led by women or with feminized structures. It is consolidated as a good practice and a key element for democratizing access to funding within the SSE.
Implementation
As a result of this work, Seira is promoting an Equality Plan with the aim of reinforcing, systematizing, and deepening a practice that is already carried out in line with its values.
