Title: Indigenous and non-indigenous entrepreneurs: the significance of business and social contexts

Authors: Zubin Sethna; Rosalind Jones; Richard Edwards

Addresses: Baresman Consulting, UK ' Birmingham Business School, University of Birmingham, University House, Edgbaston Park Road, Birmingham, B15 2TY, UK ' NMi UK, Intec, Ffordd Y Parc, Bangor, Gwynedd, UK, LL57 4HJ, UK

Abstract: This paper reports on the under-researched topic of indigenous and non-indigenous entrepreneurs in the UK in both rural and urban regions; referred to by Bjerke and Hultman (2013, p.65) in this context as a narrow view of entrepreneurship. This research provides insights into how both rural and urban socioeconomic environments influence the emergence of specific types of entrepreneur. Findings indicate that incoming rural entrepreneurs are lifestyle entrepreneurs while second generation urban ethnic entrepreneurs resist ethnic enclave economies. Issues identified include: lifestyle choices; impact of social and cultural influences; access to business support; use of networks and, a focus on customer relationships. Research implications include identification of differences between indigenous and non-indigenous entrepreneurs which indicate a requirement for bespoke business support that can adapt to the needs of nascent entrepreneurs in different environments.

Keywords: entrepreneurship; indigenous entrepreneurs; non-indigenous entrepreneurs; urban socioeconomic environments; rural socioeconomic environments; ethnicity; culture; business support; UK; United Kingdom; entrepreneurial types; lifestyle entrepreneurs; ethnic enclave economies; lifestyle choices; social influences; cultural influences; networking; customer relationships.

DOI: 10.1504/JGBA.2014.065591

Journal for Global Business Advancement, 2014 Vol.7 No.4, pp.325 - 354

Published online: 30 Apr 2015 *

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