The role of government policies in establishing a conducive entrepreneurial environment for disabled entrepreneurs in China

Entrepreneurship plays an important role in reducing social exclusion and economic discrimination, which are often found in marginalized groups. Self-employment is likely to help disabled people out of underemployment, unemployment, and low income, which may improve their perceived social value and self-sufficiency. Research has shown high rates of self-employment among disabled people and such enterprises not only provide an economic contribution, but also make a significant contribution in the provision of jobs for other disabled people. Nevertheless, despite disabled people having a broadly positive attitude towards entrepreneurship, the entrepreneurial environment can still cause extreme challenges for them. Highlighting the importance of the relationship between an individual with disability and their environment, this study explores the role of government policies in China in supporting disabled entrepreneurs. Drawing upon institutional theory and entrepreneurial ecosystem literature, the results reflects on how disabled entrepreneurs in China face discrimination in employment and other career pathways. Through in-depth interviews with Chinese disabled entrepreneurs, the study also explores the role of government in creating a conducive environment for disabled entrepreneurs in China.