The Socioemotional Approach: Batak Women as Pillars of Family Enterprises in North Sumatra

Family businesses are closely shaped by the cultural values of their communities, and the role of women, particularly in patriarchal societies, merits further investigation. The Batak community, one of the largest ethnic groups in Indonesia, is renowned for its vibrant cultural heritage and strong familial ties rooted in clan systems and traditions. This study explores how Batak women in North Sumatra sustain family businesses through the lens of socioemotional wealth (SEW), which manifests in family prominence, continuity, and enrichment. It highlights their roles in integrating tradition with innovation, overcoming challenges, and contributing to economic sustainability. This research was conducted in North Sumatra, home to the Batak community, using semi-structured interviews with Batak women from multigenerational family businesses. The findings reveal that Batak women uphold their family's reputation, bridge generational gaps, and drive innovation while preserving their cultural identity. They overcome patriarchal norms, intergenerational tensions, and resource limitations, which leads to business longevity and community development. This study contributes to the literature on family business, entrepreneurial family, and cultural entrepreneurship by embedding SEW into indigenous contexts and highlighting the transformative roles of women in patriarchal settings. The chapter offers insights into inclusive entrepreneurship and culturally grounded innovation. Future research should explore similar dynamics across ethnic groups and investigate the longitudinal impact of female leadership.