The motivation of women entrepreneurs in Singapore

Reports an empirical study, conducted within the context of Singapore, which examines the motives that stimulate women into becoming business owners. Aims to uncover the characteristics of a typical woman entrepreneur in Singapore; the motivational needs of women entrepreneurs; and the factors influencing the motivational needs of women entrepreneurs. Uses the Need Theory as a theoretical framework to study the motivation of women entrepreneurs. Hypothesizes that business ownership is a manifestation of four needs ‐ achievement; affiliation; autonomy; and dominance. Concludes that women entrepreneurs are motivated by a high need for achievement, a slightly high need for dominance and moderate needs for affiliation and autonomy. Finds women entrepreneurs demonstrate a higher need for achievement and dominance than women employees but significant difference in the needs for affiliation and autonomy.