Gender inequality persists as a significant challenge, particularly in men-dominated environments. This session will explore what type of networks can help women entrepreneurs overcome barriers in entrepreneurship. Specifically, it examines the differential impacts of family ties, professional connections, and affiliations with incubators on entrepreneurial idea elaboration and championing. Drawing on data from French entrepreneurs, our findings reveal that women derive greater benefits from family ties, while men achieve heightened creative returns through professional networks. A set of experiments explores potential mechanisms driving gender disparities. These insights shed light on the types of networks that can either mitigate or exacerbate gender differences in new ventures. It also allows a reflection on the benefits of mixed-method studies in network research.