Research over the past 15 years has identified a strong correlation between neurodivergent qualities and entrepreneurial skills, yet gaps remain in understanding the lived experiences of these individuals. The literature on neurodiversity in entrepreneurship is limited, skewed towards ADHD (Nofal et al., 2018) and mostly based on deductive reasoning (Lerner et al., 2019; Wiklund et al., 2017), hindering understanding the lived experiences of a broader spectrum of neurodivergent entrepreneurs.
Sônego et al. (2021) note that while traits like energy and risk-taking in ADHD entrepreneurs can drive entrepreneurial success, difficulties with impulsivity, inattention, time management, and organization may hinder long-term performance. Simultaneously, research highlights that neurodivergent individuals bring unique traits to entrepreneurship, such as creativity, hyper-focus, and innovative thinking (Lerner et al., 2018). These qualities can serve as significant assets, particularly in industries requiring unconventional problem-solving (Hutson, 2024).
Key themes to be explored include neurodivergent approaches to innovation, risk adaptation, leadership styles, access to funding, the efficacy of support networks, and experiences of identity and stigma. Moreover, longitudinal data are warranted in the literature.
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Hutson, P. (2024) “Embracing the Irreplaceable: The Role of Neurodiversity in Cultivating Human-AI Symbiosis in Education,” International Journal of Emerging and Disruptive Innovation in Education : VISIONARIUM: Vol. 2: Iss. 1, Article 5.Nofal, A. M., Lerner, D.A., Hunt, R.A. and Verheul, I. (2018) ‘Dueling banjos: Harmony and discord between ADHD and entrepreneurship’, Academy of Management Perspectives, 32(2).
Lerner, D. A., Verheul, I., and Thurik, R. (2019). ‘Entrepreneurship and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a large-scale study involving the clinical condition of ADHD. Small Business Economics’, 53, 381-392.
Nicolaou, N., Symeonidou, N., and Shane, S. (2018). ‘Biology and management: A review, critique, and research agenda’. Journal of Management, 44(1), 7-31.
Sônego M, Meller M, Massuti R, Campani F, Amaro J, Barbosa C, Rohde LA. (2021) Exploring the association between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and entrepreneurship. Braz J Psychiatry. Mar-Apr;43(2):174-180.
Wiklund, J., Yu, W., Tucker, R. and Marino, L.D. (2017) ‘ADHD, impulsivity and entrepreneurship’, Journal of Business Venturing, 32(6), pp. 627–656.
