Abstract
This study employs a critical feminist approach and a classical push-pull theory to explore the start-up motivations of female entrepreneurs in Vietnam. This research focuses on female entrepreneurs from disadvantaged backgrounds, including those affected by geographical marginalisation, minority ethnicity, and single parenthood. The initial findings of this study identify multi-dimensional start-up motives among female entrepreneurs, driven by their passion for value creation and transformation, as well as their desire to leverage regional heritage, fuelled by the financial needs of their families. Additionally, the study investigates how they navigate their gender roles as mothers and daughters while establishing their businesses, as well as how their interests, expertise, and experiences influence their start-up journeys. Furthermore, this study reveals how the marginalised nature of demographics—such as ethnicity, social class, educational background, and social norms—shapes the entrepreneurial motivations of female entrepreneurs. Our research findings contribute to advancing the current understanding of women’s entrepreneurial motivations embedded within their socio-cultural contexts. This paper also offers practical insights to inform the design of appropriate policies and support for female entrepreneurs, particularly those from disadvantaged groups.