The Context of New Venture Initiation : Comparing Growth Expectations of Nascent Entrepreneurs and Intrapreneurs

Little research has explored the similarities and differences between nascent entrepreneurs and nascent intrapreneurs.Nascent entrepreneurs create new business ventures for themselves, while nascent intrapreneurs create these ventures on behalf of established organizations. This research compares and contrasts the characteristics and behaviors exhibited by both nascent entrepreneurs and nascent intrapreneurs.A lengthy review of previous literature is provided as a basis for this research and many propositions are created by the researchers.To test these propositions, data from the Entrepreneurship Research Consortium (ERC) were used. Overall findings of this research indicate that nascent intrapreneurs perceive less business uncertainty, are more risk-seeking, create more formal business plans, and acquire lower growth expectations than nascent entrepreneurs.Possible explanations for the disparities between nascent entrepreneurs and nascent intrapreneurs are provided.Also, a significant correlation was found between ventures high in risk/reward potential and growth expectations.(AKP)