Feminist Entrepreneurship: A Qualitative Analysis of Value Alignment and Motivational Factors

This study explores the concept of feminist entrepreneurship through a qualitative content analysis of ten semi-structured interviews, investigating the influence of feminist values on the creation of ventures and the practices employed in business. The research addresses critical gaps in extant entrepreneurial research by examining the motivations and strategies of feminist entrepreneurs. The findings of this study demonstrate that feminist entrepreneurship is inherently intersectional, thereby transcending conventional profit-driven models. These entrepreneurs integrate values such as equal rights, diversity, and social change into their business strategies, viewing their ventures as platforms for socio-economic transformation. In contrast to conventional entrepreneurship, these ventures prioritize ethical goals and societal impact, positioning feminist entrepreneurship as a distinct subset of social entrepreneurship. The study underscores that these entrepreneurs are driven by aspirations beyond financial autonomy, seeking to cultivate flexible, appreciative work environments and culture and contribute to social justice. Despite challenges in a male-dominated corporate landscape, they demonstrate the potential for business to drive meaningful social change. This research offers a nuanced perspective on entrepreneurship, integrating social responsibility and personal fulfillment, thereby establishing a foundation for future investigations into feminist entrepreneurial practices.