How do informal institutions affect entrepreneurs’ behaviors in Morocco and France?

International audience This study focuses on the role of informal institutions on entrepreneurial dynamics in France and Morrocco. Drawing upon the institutional theory, we explore the interplay of informal institutions, entrepreneurship and gender. Based on 26 semi-structured interviews, this study aims to uncover the influence of informal institutions on entrepreneurs’ business endeavors alongside institutional change. Key findings include the significance of family, trust, and reciprocity, as well as the critical role of one’s patronym in leveraging wasta in Morocco. Informal institutions persist even in developed environments while formalizing institutions in emerging countries inadvertently heightens industrial rivalry and escalates wasta usage.