The Lived Experiences of African American Entrepreneurs: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis
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Authors
Moody, Asante
Issue Date
2026-01
Type
Dissertation
Language
en
Keywords
Access to Capital , African American Entrepreneurs , Community Reinvestment Act , Critical Race Theory , Racial Barriers , Socioeconomics , Business, Engineering, Science, & Technological Innovation , Criminal Justice & Public Safety , Educational Leadership & Learning Lifelong , Military Learners & Veteran Transition , Workforce Development Needs & Industry Alignment
Alternative Title
Abstract
The underrepresentation of African American entrepreneurs in the United States is a persistent socioeconomic problem that affects wealth creation, employment, and inclusive economic growth. This qualitative, interpretive phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of successful African American entrepreneurs, focusing on the socioeconomic factors that influence their career choices and the strategies they use to overcome systemic barriers. Guided by an interpretive phenomenological framework, the study examined how entrepreneurs navigated business ownership in environments shaped by racial and economic inequities. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 14 African American entrepreneurs in the Midwestern United States who had sustained their businesses for more than 5 years. Participants were recruited purposively, and interviews were conducted individually via a virtual platform. Data analysis included iterative reading, NVivo coding, and thematic synthesis. Findings revealed persistent challenges, such as limited access to capital, racialized business environments, and structural barriers that restricted opportunities despite education and professional qualifications. Participants emphasized resilience, adaptability, and perseverance, with mentorship, social capital, and community networks emerging as critical support systems. Creative financing strategies and innovation are key mechanisms for sustaining business operations. The study concluded that African American entrepreneurs often rely on personal agency and community resources to overcome institutional barriers. Implications include expanding culturally responsive mentoring, improving equitable financing pathways, and strengthening community-based entrepreneurial networks. Future research should explore regional differences, longitudinal experiences, and comparative studies across diverse populations