Entrepreneuring in necessity contexts: effecting change among widow entrepreneurs in Northern Ghana

Abstract

This article explores if and how the entrepreneuring efforts of an endogenous NGO can entrepreneurially empower widow necessity entrepreneurs living in extreme poverty in a rural area of Northern Ghana. In reconceptualizing necessity entrepreneurship as engagement in necessity contexts, three main context specific actions and processes were foregrounded: values-based action focus, upskilling by boundaried choice; and forming, organizing and maintaining symbiotic relationships. Subsequently, the extent to which these actions and processes contributed to empowerment were assessed and explained. Upon outlining how the research contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of entrepreneurship in necessity contexts and broadens our understanding of entrepreneurship, the article ends by discussing the research’s implications and limitations.