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Motives of Entrepreneurs: A Case Study of South Africa

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  • B. C. Mitchell

    (Division of Management, School of Economics and Management, University of Natal, Durban, South Africa)

Abstract

The study reported in this paper examines the motivation of entrepreneurs in starting a business in the socio-economic milieu of South Africa. More specifically, it aims to identify similarities and differences in the motive profiles of 101 male and female entrepreneurs. A motivation scale and open-ended interviews were used to assess the ‘reasons for starting a business’. Both men and women entrepreneurs were found to be primarily motivated by the need for independence, need for material incentives and the need for achievement. The need to contribute to the community was not an important reason. Male entrepreneurs in comparison to females were more motivated by the need to provide family security and to make a difference in the business. Female entrepreneurs more than males were motivated by the need to keep learning and the need for more money to survive.

Suggested Citation

  • B. C. Mitchell, 2004. "Motives of Entrepreneurs: A Case Study of South Africa," Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Emerging Economies, Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India, vol. 13(2), pages 167-183, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jouent:v:13:y:2004:i:2:p:167-183
    DOI: 10.1177/097135570401300203
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    Cited by:

    1. Mamman, Aminu & Bawole, Justice & Agbebi, Motolani & Alhassan, Abdul-Razak, 2019. "SME policy formulation and implementation in Africa: Unpacking assumptions as opportunity for research direction," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 97(C), pages 304-315.
    2. Hundera, Mulu, 2019. "Role conflict, coping strategies and female entrepreneurial success in sub-Saharan Africa," Other publications TiSEM 3e263b0c-3bf3-474a-8a20-b, Tilburg University, School of Economics and Management.

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