What influences ethnic entrepreneurs’ decision to start up: Some evidence from Aberdeen, Scotland

Farid Ullah, Rahman Zillur, Robert Smith, Ahmed Beloucif

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

8 Citations (Scopus)
107 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore some key factors that influences ethnic entrepreneur’s decision in starting-up a new business in Aberdeen, Scotland.

Design/methodology/approach
The authors set out to investigate the motives, drivers and attitudes of ethnic minorities in seeking entrepreneurial opportunities. The authors conduct in-depth face-to-face interviews with 25 ethnic entrepreneurs from a variety of nationalities and cultures originating mainly from the Indian subcontinent region. This includes entrepreneurs from India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and some others. The motivations varies according to their culture, traditions, religion and other environmental factors influencing on their decision to start-up.

Findings
The results reveal some interesting influential factors that lead to the successful start-up decision. These include a positive mindset, self-efficacy, strong determination, knowing of the market and local business culture and good financial management.

Originality/value
This paper is based on empirical research and new data have been collected specifically for this research. The authors hope the new findings from this research work will enhance the understanding about ethnic minority businesses in the context of Aberdeen, Scotland.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1081-1103
Number of pages23
JournalJournal of Small Business and Enterprise Development
Volume23
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Oct 2016

Keywords

  • entrepreneurship
  • social capital
  • networking
  • start-up
  • ethnic minority

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