Why are Some Entrepreneurs More Innovative than Others?

Abstract

The study provides theoretical insights and empirical evidence on the emergence of different types and degrees of entrepreneurial innovativeness. The results suggest that entrepreneurial innovativeness depends both on individual factors and on the environment in which the individual lives. In particular, high educational attainment and a high degree of self-confidence are significantly associated with entrepreneurial innovativeness at the individual level. Furthermore, entrepreneurs in highly developed countries are more likely to engage in innovative rather than purely imitative activities. The results also show that product, process, and variety innovations have at least to some extent different antecedents.

Keywords: Entrepreneurship, Innovation, Business opportunities