Push or pull: a qualitative research of entrepreneurship journey for people with disabilities in India using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA)

Disability is a global issue and affects 16% of the world population, and excluding Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) can cost countries 3–7% of GDP. Despite policies on inclusive hiring and quotas for job reservations, real implementation remains bleak, leaving many persons with disabilities without formal jobs. Consequently, entrepreneurship is an alternative path to self-reliance, especially in developing countries where workplaces are inaccessible and infrastructure is limited. The purpose of this study is to explore the challenges, motivations, and lived entrepreneurial experiences of Persons with Disabilities in India, with a focus on push-and-pull factors influencing their decision to start a business. This research adopts an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) approach to examine the entrepreneurial journeys of eight PwD with diverse disabilities across India. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews centered on their motivations, challenges, and support systems. PwD pursue entrepreneurship due to push factors such as age-related exclusion, ineffective job quotas, inaccessible workplaces, limited funding, and health constraints, alongside pull factors like independence, dignity, and family needs. While family support, NGO mentoring, microcredit, training, and digital exposure enable their ventures, poor accessibility, seasonal income, and digital illiteracy still hinder sustained growth. The study highlights the need for an ‘ ENABLE’ Framework that promotes economic access, network & accessible infrastructure, age-friendly digital upskilling, business support hubs, livelihood integration, and empowerment through mentorship. Strengthening these systemic barriers is vital for fostering inclusive entrepreneurship and promoting the economic participation of individuals with disabilities.