Strategic Networking and Organizational Growth of Women Entrepreneurs in the Nigerian South West

This study examines the relationship between strategic networking behaviors and organizational growth among women entrepreneurs in the South West geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Despite the numerical significance of women in Nigeria's entrepreneurial landscape, strategic networking as a deliberate organizational growth tool remains underexplored in the West African context. Social capital theory and network theory provide the dual theoretical foundation. The research employs a quantitative survey design. A structured questionnaire measuring networking orientation, network quality, and organizational growth indicators was administered to 200 women business owners in Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo states, selected through professional women business associations. Multiple regression analysis was applied, with business age and sector type as controls. Findings reveal that strategic networking, particularly formal business association participation and cross-sector professional network cultivation, has a significant positive effect on organizational growth measured through revenue expansion, employment growth, and market reach. The study finds that the effect of strategic networking on growth is stronger for entrepreneurs in sectors characterized by relational market entry barriers, including financial services and professional services. Digital networking through LinkedIn and sector-specific online communities is identified as an emerging and increasingly effective networking modality. The research concludes that women entrepreneur support programs must integrate strategic networking skills development as a core organizational growth strategy component. Keywords: strategic networking, organizational growth, women entrepreneurs, South West Nigeria, social capital.