Drawing on self-determination and institutional theories, this study investigates how neurodiverse individuals navigate the challenges associated with establishing and managing entrepreneurial ventures within the Egyptian context.
A qualitative research design was adopted. Twenty semi-structured interviews were conducted with neurodiverse entrepreneurs and their mothers, and the data were analysed using the Gioia methodological framework.
The findings show that neurodiverse entrepreneurs in Egypt manage their entrepreneurial ventures through three principal forms of adaptation. First, contextual adaptation encompasses the management of interpersonal challenges and a substantial reliance on digital communication. Second, personal adaptation is reflected in sustained family involvement, a preference for home-based entrepreneurship, and a strong commitment to continuous learning. Third, survival-oriented adaptation is characterised by engagement in informal business structures and limited growth aspirations.
By focussing on a developing-country context, this study highlights the potential of neurodiverse entrepreneurship to foster regional economic inclusion, expand human capital and inform policies supporting underrepresented entrepreneurial populations.
