ENTREPRENEURSHIP INTRAPRENEURSHIP

This article examines the aspects and characteristics of entrepreneurship and intrapreneurship from a psychological perspective. The importance of both in contributing new products and services so vital to economic development and growth is discussed. The characteristics of entrepreneurs are discussed in terms of (a) the desirability and possibility of being an entrepreneur; (b) the childhood family environment of the entrepreneur; (c) the education level of the entrepreneur and spouse; (d) personal values, age, work history, and motivation of the entrepreneur; and (e) role models and support systems. The typical corporate versus the intrapreneurial culture is examined with respect to developing a climate for intrapreneurship as well as the characteristics of intrapreneurs. Although intrapreneurship may not be the right environment for every corporate culture, the possibilities that come from establishing it in an organization rather than from achieving results in the more traditional corporate culture are discussed.