Browsing by Author "Moses, Denver Barry"

Now showing 1 - 1 of 1
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Gender differences in the motivations and barriers of entrepreneurs: evidence from a survey in Mitchell's Plain
    (University of the Western Cape, 2011) Moses, Denver Barry
    The small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) sector within the South African and global context is perceived to have the potential to drive economic growth, and produce positive spinoffs in terms of both poverty alleviation and job creation. In this regard, entrepreneurs are seen as the cornerstones of SMMEs. This is especially true if one keeps in mind that sustainability within this sector depends heavily on the ability to recognise a niche in the market and then being able to convert it into a lucrative business opportunity. It could be argued that the greater the pool of potential entrepreneurs, the greater the prospects for economic growth for the country as a whole. Therefore, critical to economic growth is the lowering of barriers for entry of potential entrepreneurs. In addition, maximising the pool of potential entrepreneurs requires that the opportunity to start and operate a business be equally accessible to both females and males. GlobaJly there is a gender gap that illustrates the existence of more male than female entrepreneurs and many countries, including South Africa, are initiating interventions to narrow that gap. Within this context, this study attempted to disclose the motivations and barriers faced by both females and males when deciding to embark and ultimately remain on the entrepreneurial journey. Additionally, the study sought to establish how female and male entrepreneurs perceived themselves and how they thought others perceived them.