| Abstract [eng] |
SUMMARY 46 pages, 7 charts, 9 pictures, 46 references. The aim of this master's thesis is to analyze the motivations, challenges and success factors of older women (aged 55 and over) who have started their own businesses in Lithuania. The work consists of three main parts: literature analysis, research and its results, conclusions and recommendations. It combines a theoretical review—drawing on push–pull theory, and gendered entrepreneurship research—and an empirical study based on ten in-depth interviews. Data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed through inductive qualitative content analysis. Findings show that most participants were driven by financial independence or labor-market exclusion, aligning with GEM’s “enrichment” and “necessity” categories. Major obstacles included limited access to capital, technological skills gaps, and age discrimination. Key success factors encompassed prior knowledge and skills, personal resilience and self-expression, supportive networks, and measurable financial returns. Participants defined success by both smooth operations and intrinsic satisfaction. The study concludes that enhancing older women’s entrepreneurship requires targeted financial instruments, tailored mentoring, and digital-skills training, alongside public campaigns to challenge stereotypes. Future quantitative research should validate these insights and explore how gender–age intersections shape entrepreneurial choices. |
