Entrepreneurial couples in new venture creation: Reflections on expectations, reality and family relationships

Three hundred and forty-four north Louisiana, USA, entrepreneurial couples were interviewed to determine the impact on entrepreneurs and their spouses of starting and managing a new venture. There was commonality between entrepreneurs and their spouses related to expectations and outcomes for and from the new venture. More couples actually felt happier and financially better off after starting and running a businesses than they had expected. Some realised that the time and effort required were important negatives. Most entrepreneurs and their spouses would start a new venture again given the learning that occurred in the new venture formation process. Copyright © 2009 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.