Theses and Dissertations Collection

Latina entrepreneurs are contributing to the increase in entrepreneurship in the United States. Latinas’ engagement in entrepreneurship contributes economically to rural communities as well as their families. This study used a qualitative inductive approach to explore the influence and interaction of gender and culture on Latina entrepreneurs. This study draws on 21in-depth interviews conducted from 2017-2018 with Latina business owners based in southern, Idaho. Interviews explored participants’ motivations, opportunities, barriers, and experiences starting and sustaining businesses in Idaho. The study found positive client interaction is highly valued by participants, because they view them like family. Therefore, because positive client interaction is important to the participants their personal interactions with clients are an important aspect of their business experiences.