Recognition of Entrepreneurial Opportunities in Times of Crisis

Abstract

The goal of this research is to investigate the phenomenon of entrepreneurial opportunity recognition during a crisis from the perspective of the individual. As well as to contribute to the research on the preferences and motives of Eastern European entrepreneurs during a crisis. To achieve this goal, a combination of several research methods is used. The analysis of the existing Western-focused research serves as a starting point for the formulation of the hypotheses. Then the hypotheses are used as a basis for the creation of the questionnaire. The online survey is employed to collect original data conveniently for respondents. Then the findings are analyzed in an attempt to reveal the motivation, thinking, and decision-making of Eastern European entrepreneurs and Ukrainians in particular in adverse conditions. The study includes chapters on both the theory and original data analysis. Key findings include the prominence of community-driven motives, the limited impact of prolonged stress on the risk-taking of Ukrainians, and the minimal influence of resilience campaigns on entrepreneurial intentions. The crisis has also shifted business registration preferences, favoring stable fields over disrupted ones. Notably, refugees leaned towards familiar cultural regions for entrepreneurship, suggesting cultural integration can boost entrepreneurial opportunities.