Motivational Drivers of Women Entrepreneurs

Abstract

In our study, we analyze the entrepreneurial motivations of women entrepreneurs, with particular emphasis on the internal drivers that go beyond traditional financial objectives. Women entrepreneurs make a significant contribution to economic variety, as they often operate in sectors that differ from those dominated by men. Our research focused on the factors that encourage women to start their own businesses, and on the role played by self-fulfillment, flexible working hours, and the desire to achieve work life balance. Applying a quantitative method, we conducted a questionnaire survey in March 2025, which respondents completed online voluntarily and anonymously. A total of 76 active women entrepreneurs filled in the questionnaire. The main hypothesis of our investigation was that self-fulfillment and freedom in time management play a key role in the motivation of women entrepreneurs. Our results show that women entrepreneurs often choose business activities that align with their personal values and life situations, while also providing opportunities to express their creativity. Our research contributes to a deeper understanding of entrepreneurial types among women and highlights that the motivations of women entrepreneurs are diverse, unique, and often closely intertwined with their personal circumstances and social roles.