Title: Leadership and entrepreneurial choices: understanding the motivational dynamics of women entrepreneurs in Mexico

Authors: Marcus Goncalves; Karol Gil Vasquez

Addresses: Boston University Metropolitan College, 1010 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, MA 02215, USA ' Nichols College, 121 Center Road, P.O. Box 5000, Dudley, MA, 01571, USA

Abstract: This paper investigates women's entrepreneurial leadership within Stewart's role demands-constraints-choices in Mexico. It highlights the underrepresented role of female entrepreneurs in Latin America and aims to fill a literature gap by examining their unique motivations and leadership styles. Adopting a qualitative method and semi-structured interviews with Mexican women entrepreneurs, it finds that their motivations are intertwined with personal goals, cultural norms, and economic conditions, contrasting with findings from developing nations. Key motivations include financial autonomy, family support, societal betterment, and personal fulfilment. Findings offer a comprehensive view of the complex interplay between the entrepreneurs' roles, motivations, and leadership decisions within the socio-economic and cultural backdrop. It contributes to the broader dialogue on international entrepreneurship and women's studies, enhancing understanding of Mexican women's entrepreneurship. Conclusions and recommendations offer practical implications for policymakers, educators, and industry professionals by providing strategies to cultivate an environment that supports women's entrepreneurial leadership in emerging economies.

Keywords: women entrepreneurship; push and pull motivational factors; Mexico; international entrepreneurship; entrepreneurism.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEXPORTM.2024.138454

International Journal of Export Marketing, 2024 Vol.6 No.2, pp.161 - 205

Received: 30 Nov 2023
Accepted: 12 Mar 2024
Published online: 03 May 2024 *

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