SOCIO-ECONOMICS BACKGROUND AND FAMILY-BUSINESS GOALS AMONG SILVER WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS IN LINFEN CITY, CHINA: CASE ANALYSIS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18623/rvd.v23.5592Keywords:
Silver Women Entrepreneurs, Entrepreneurial Intention, Family-Business Goals, Empowerment, Socio-Economic BackgroundAbstract
This study examines the socio-economic backgrounds and family-business goals of silver women entrepreneurs in Linfen City, China, using ten narrative case analyses. The participants, aged 55–70, operate small-scale businesses such as restaurants, food stalls, and mobile vending carts. The findings indicate that their entrepreneurial activities are largely motivated by family-oriented goals, including supplementing household income, supporting children or grandchildren, covering medical expenses, and maintaining family harmony, rather than pursuing profit maximization or business expansion. The analysis shows that socio-economic background shapes entrepreneurial pathways. Some women relied on pensions, savings, or family support for startup capital, while others independently financed their businesses, demonstrating resilience and autonomy. Education level and prior work experience influenced their confidence, decision-making, and management capacity. Although traditional gender norms persist—particularly in major household decisions—the majority reported increased self-worth, financial independence, and greater influence within their families.
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