Whats Different About Women Entrepreneurs

Abstract

Despite the fact that women are increasingly opting for entrepreneurship as a career, there are numerous derogatory myths about women entrepreneurs (Brush, Carter, et al. 2001), in terms of their aspirations, capabilities and access to human, social, and financial capital. This paper reports the findings of an exploratory study of Indian women entrepreneurs, based on in-depth interviews with pioneering women who started businesses in Silicon Valley. It finds that higher education (human capital) and family support networks play a crucial role in raising the aspirations and ability of women entrepreneurs to lead high growth businesses.