Entrepreneurial motives in Greek rural areas: 'opportunity' or 'necessity'

Abstract

Entrepreneurship is vital in the development and sustainability of rural areas. This research examines the motives for entrepreneurship in rural areas in Greece and delves further into the form of entrepreneurship based on the motives prevailing in these areas. The data collection was conducted through personal interviews totalling 240 questionnaires, disseminated among entrepreneurs. Understanding business motives may provide valuable information for policymakers to facilitate or develop a favourable business environment in rural areas. Equally important is the identification of entrepreneurship (opportunity or out of necessity), as it can shape the socio-economic development of the rural communities in which the businesses are located. The search for motives for start-up business activity, especially in rural areas, is important, as it demonstrates the extent to which activities are real business efforts based on an internal need, or recognition of an opportunity, or a response to adverse economic circumstances, including unemployment.