Inclusive Entrepreneurship and Motivation Among People With Intellectual Disability: “Why They Act”

Abstract

Abstract Social entrepreneurship is a growing trend for people with intellectual disability (ID). This trend reflects a shift in contemporary policy towards entrepreneurship and self-employment as a viable employment option for people with disability in general; a strategy which is intended to promote autonomy and reduce dependence on entitlement-based services as well as to reduce employment disparities and stimulate business and job creation. However, it is not well understood what exactly this means for people with ID involved in social entrepreneurial ventures. This research approached the issue by conducting dyadic interviews to explore the motivations of people with ID who are participating and supported in social entrepreneurship—“why they act.” In exploring these motivations, this article investigates push-pull factors, the role of the social mission, and how support influences motivation.