Characterisation of Black African entrepreneurship in the UK: a pilot study

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide a general characterisation of entrepreneurial orientations of Black Africans in the UK. Design/methodology/approach Methodological appropriateness rather than orthodoxy was fundamental in the design of this research. A combination of idiosyncratic and multiplicative sampling strategy was applied in a discovery‐oriented context. Research questions were adapted from the attribution questions frequently used in related studies. In consideration of the exploratory nature of this work, a connected narrative approach was used in presenting the results. Data collection was undertaken in London. Findings Observes that many Black Africans embarked on entrepreneurship more to escape ethnic penalties than a strategic response to the structure of environmental opportunities. Thus, this “escapist mindset” has meant that inadequate initial preparations have tended to characterise the small businesses they operate. Recognises that whilst a pattern of market concentration is discernible at the co‐ethnic level (i.e. first entry market), there is little evidence of strategic evolution towards mainstreaming or the attainment of sectoral aggregation either at national or regional level. Research limitations/implications Data collection was limited to London‐non‐Black African entrepreneurs were excluded. Therefore, care should be taken in making generalisations from the sample. Practical implications Many African‐owned businesses are failure‐prone and in need of strategic interventions in order to secure their growth and sustainability. Originality/value Highly valuable with very little research completed to date on this topic.