Innovative Self-concept of Micro-entrepreneurs: Perception of Barriers and Intention to Invest

Abstract The research presented below examines micro-entrepreneur conditions that relate to their innovative self-concept and the effect of this self-concept on the perception of barriers to entrepreneurship and intention to invest in assets. For this, I analyzed 5,836 surveys completed by Chilean micro-entrepreneurs who declared maintaining productive activities in 2015. The results show that there is a difference in innovative self-concept, depending on the age, gender, marital status and educational level of the entrepreneurs. Moreover, this showed that entrepreneurs that self-define themselves as innovators intend to invest and perceive barriers to entrepreneurship in a different way. The obtained evidence is relevant for guiding public policies that strengthen investment and for reducing micro-entrepreneurs' perceived barriers according to their individual characteristics. Additionally, the results could be considered in other emerging Latin American countries, with similar conditions.