Owner-managers' motivation and the growth of family-owned small and medium-sized enterprises

摘要

This paper explores the motivation of owner-managers, the growth of their small and medium-sized family businesses, and how the two phenomena are related. Using qualitative data and building on the perceptions of four Finnish owner-managers revealed three types of motivation - economic, psychological and social. The growth paths of the family businesses studied were unique, and the study illustrates the impact of the various stakeholders on the motivation of the owner-managers and the growth of the businesses. It is suggested that further research focusing on the motivation of owner-managers would prove valuable in explaining and promoting growth in small and medium-sized family businesses.