African Journal of
Business Management

  • Abbreviation: Afr. J. Bus. Manage.
  • Language: English
  • ISSN: 1993-8233
  • DOI: 10.5897/AJBM
  • Start Year: 2007
  • Published Articles: 4194

Full Length Research Paper

Entrepreneurship in the rural context: Practical reflection on success and innovation

Vukosi Autis Mkhavele
  • Vukosi Autis Mkhavele
  • Regent Business School, Johannesburg, South Africa.
  • Google Scholar
Thembie Ntshakala
  • Thembie Ntshakala
  • Director, Polokwane Municipality, Financial and Fiscal Commission (FFC), South Africa.
  • Google Scholar


  •  Received: 21 July 2018
  •  Accepted: 08 October 2018
  •  Published: 14 November 2018

Abstract

Given the important role that entrepreneurship plays in the economy, it is desirable that entrepreneurs succeed. However, there is a noticeable trend of rural entrepreneurs migrating to urban areas. This study aims to ascertain the factors that contribute to entrepreneurial success. Using quantitative methods fifty respondents participated and data was collected using questionnaires. The collected data was analysed and presented both descriptively and inferentially. The study found that the majority of entrepreneurs agree that factors that positively impact innovation include good customer service; hard work; social skills; a good product at a competitive price and maintenance of accurate records. Appropriate training for entrepreneurs also helps to avoid mistakes made by other entrepreneurs. The study, therefore, recommends that government as well as the private sector offer greater support to entrepreneurs.

 

Key words: Entrepreneurs, finance, performance.