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This study examines entrepreneurial motivation in three diverse samples from an identitypossible self-perspective. We propose a model describing antecedents and outcomes of entrepreneur identity aspirations. In two of the three samples, strength of entrepreneur identity aspiration was significantly associated with the extent to which the individual's self-description fit his or her perceptions of the entrepreneurial role. However, identity aspiration strength predicted discovery and exploitation behaviors in all three samples. Additionally, prior start-up experience moderated the relationship between identity aspiration and exploitation behaviors for all three samples. These findings contribute to our understanding of what moves entrepreneurial "dreamers" to action.To become an entrepreneur, an individual needs to take action in identifying opportunities, deriving a plan to take advantage of the opportunity, executing the plan, and constantly monitoring and adjusting the plan. What then impels some-but not otherstoward action and keeps them going? We believe a person's developing sense of self as an entrepreneur represents a powerful motivating force that can help explain why some individuals choose and continue to engage in entrepreneurial activity and why others do not. In this study, we examine the impact of an individual's aspiration to become an entrepreneur on engagement in nascent or gestational entrepreneurial activities (Davidsson, 2006).Aspirations concern longings, aims, or ambitions. They refer to something desired that is not currently possessed. How we want to see ourselves-who we would like to be-has a great deal to do with how we will act. Desired or aspirational self-images have been implicated as powerful precursors of individual engagement, action, and persistence from a number of perspectives such as role identity (e.g.,

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