Rethinking the Micro-Economy: What If Men Played Women's Roles in Money-Making and Saving?

Before we delve into this exploration, it's essential to acknowledge that these discussions are based on generalizations and societal trends rather than absolute truths. Not all crafters are female, and not all individuals engaging in home-based businesses are women. However, there exists a historical and cultural context where women have often played a significant role in the micro-economy of making or saving money for their families. With this understanding, let's ponder a thought-provoking scenario: What if men took on these traditional roles typically associated with women? How might this reshape our perceptions of economic activities and the support systems surrounding them?

In the intricate tapestry of economic activities, there exists a micro-economy often overlooked but deeply impactful—where women historically play a crucial role in making or saving money for their families. This micro-economy encompasses a range of activities, from home-based businesses and craft-making ventures to budgeting and frugality in household finances. However, what if we flipped the script and imagined a world where men took on these traditional roles typically associated with women? Would this industry be taken more seriously? Would there be more funding and government support? These questions not only challenge our assumptions but also shed light on the dynamics of gender roles in economic endeavors. As I work through building a business to support this sector, I often find myself hitting road blocks that I’m just not sure I’d be hitting if it wasn’t for the “side-hustle” narrative.

The perceived seriousness of economic activities often hinges on societal norms and expectations. Historically, women's roles in the micro-economy have been relegated to the sidelines, viewed as supplementary or "side hustles" rather than primary sources of income. However, if men were at the forefront of these endeavors, would there be a shift in how they are perceived? Would there be a greater emphasis on the value and importance of these contributions to the economy? I was told by a technology adviser in early January that my business needs to support tax-payers; it needs to contribute to the economy for it to be “investable”. Interesting… That technology advisor identifies as male. I wonder if they were not male, would they view the impact that we have differently? Therefore increasing the investability of this business?

Funding and investment play a pivotal role in the success of economic ventures. In industries traditionally dominated by men, such as technology or finance, access to capital and resources is often more readily available. However, if men were leading the charge in the micro-economy of making or saving money, would they encounter similar barriers or enjoy greater access to funding? Would investors view these ventures as more viable and profitable, leading to increased funding opportunities? I’ve been told many times that I need to “think bigger” and I find that really interesting. This concept of go big or go home. Which, really, is pretty masculine… I just want to help support people and communities. Families, where they live. How is that not “big enough”?

Government support is another critical factor in nurturing economic activities. Policies, incentives, and programs aimed at supporting small businesses and entrepreneurship often target specific industries or demographics. If men were the primary drivers of home-based businesses or craft-making ventures, would there be tailored policies and initiatives to support their endeavors? Would there be a recognition of the economic contributions of men in traditionally female-dominated roles? As many of you know, I went through a very rigorous CRA audit for my SRED claim from 2022. I dealt with 9 men through this process. This program delivers $3 BILLION dollars in tax credits every year. I hoped to receive $28000. I was told that 89% of claimants are approved as filed. I was declined. I was told that I didn’t have enough documentation and that my problem being solved wasn’t complex enough and that I needed to fail more. They actually wanted me to fail more… I can’t help but think about how as a female its been drilled in to us how failing isn’t an option. I’m working so hard to crack the code on a very male dominated industry and I’m declined on a tax credit that is apparently pretty easy to achieve (I mean 89% is a pretty favourable number) because I didn’t openly fail enough. Interesting. Because the idea that me not failing automatically means that the problem I solved isn’t complex enough? Not that I have a unique understanding of how money moves through the world and am able to solve this issue through education and intelligence. Because if it was actually hard and worthy, I wouldn’t have been able to do it so easily I guess. Also, because I spent 2 years researching, planning, building… because I made it “look easy” it’s not hard enough. They would have rather I do the old run and gun I guess.

The hypothetical scenario of men playing women's roles in money-making and saving also raises broader questions about societal perceptions and biases. Would there be a reevaluation of the value and recognition attributed to these activities? Would there be a shift in how women's contributions in these roles historically are acknowledged and appreciated?

I’m not sure. There’s a lot of emotion (opps - another undesired female trait) tied in to this conversation for me. I think I’m just tired of men telling me “no”. And I’m tired of females playing small. The work done to contribute to our families financially while balancing the other traditional roles for our families… it’s not small. In fact its a average of $15,430 annually injected to a families income. Considering 28% of Canadian families (almost 9million) rely on this “extra” income to support themselves, that’s a LOT of money. Grocery buying money. Mortgage paying money. This isn’t some silly vacation fund ( I mean, for some it is, and congratulations. But it’s not for many) I’m just tired of hearing that it’s not complex enough. I’m tired of hearing that it’s not important enough. And I genuinely believe that because this is a “female” issue; because I’m a female founder; because I support a majority of female entrepreneurs; we are left to figure this out on our own.

Also, just for context, the ONE time I received funding with ease… it was from a female. Shoutout Tiffany!

Ultimately, exploring these hypothetical scenarios challenges us to rethink our perceptions, biases, and support systems in the micro-economy. By envisioning a world where all economic contributions are valued, recognized, and supported regardless of gender, we can work towards a more equitable and inclusive economic landscape. The empowerment of all voices and the breaking down of barriers are key steps towards fostering a thriving micro-economy where everyone has the opportunity to succeed and contribute meaningfully.

So while I put these ideas out in to the dark hole of internet content, I’ll move on. I’ll keep my head down and keep working. Because through all of these challenges I’m ever inspired to keep working. To keep supporting. To keep pushing. And it’s not just about my business - it’s about all of these other incredible women grinding every day without a cheerleader.