DOI: 10.5176/2251-2039_IE17.11
Authors: Isha Cooray, Mafaz Ishaq, Maneesha Fernando
Abstract: Economic growth of a country is stimulated by its entrepreneurial innovations. Despite the existing literature on entrepreneurship, as well as on innovation, studies in innovative entrepreneurship are limited. Thus, this study aims at exploring the key factors driving innovative behaviour in the context of women entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka, since women play a significant role in the field of entrepreneurship. The study involved a sample of 20 Sri Lankan women entrepreneurs with varying backgrounds drawn from multiple industries. A qualitative case study methodology was conducted through in-depth interviews, observations, focus group interviews and documentary material, as well as through thematic analysis of data. The findings show that the innovative behaviour of women entrepreneurs is driven primarily by gender identification, perceived self-efficacy, and the ability to identify opportunities. Contributing to the existing literature, this paper presents a comprehensive framework that identifies the key factors driving the innovative behaviour of women entrepreneurs, by building on existing theories. This study proposes that women should avail their social networks to identify innovative opportunities and utilize family support to build self-efficacy. It is further suggested that the organizations supporting women entrepreneurs should provide necessary support to promote innovative behaviour among women entrepreneurs.
Keywords: Innovative behaviour, Gender identification, Ability to identify opportunities, Perceived self-efficacy, Perceived family support, Need for achievement
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