Entrepreneurial Financing Based on (Dis)ability

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to add to a qualitative study by conducting a survey of entrepreneurs to gain an understanding of the financing options used by small businesses. The results of an initial qualitative case study of three entrepreneurs suggested that financing issues were of concern to entrepreneurs with disabilities (EWDs). The quantitative analysis determined whether differences existed in the use of funding between EWDs and entrepreneurs without disabilities (EWODs). Overall, the sample size of 251 allowed the researcher to determine normal distribution and that the results were reliable. The independent sample t-tests resulted in the rejection of both null hypotheses, indicating that significant differences existed in the use of the studied financing options. There is a statistical difference between EWDs and EWODs relative to the receipt of financing (traditional and alternative).