An exploration of the factors that contribute to hybrid entrepreneurship sustainability: A case of City of Tshwane Municipality, Gauteng in South Africa

Abstract

The concept of hybrid entrepreneurship was previously classified as either professional labour or self-employment to an extent that it was regarded as an act of “double-dipping”. On contrary it now stands at a forefront as a mechanism that generate supplementary income. However, the phenomenon of hybrid entrepreneurship has not been fully studied, as the most common studied aspects relates to the benefits of hybrid entrepreneurship, and its transitory decision notion. Thus, it has left a knowledge gaps pertaining to challenges of hybrid entrepreneurship and sustainability strategies. Therefore, in this context, the present study has investigated the factors contributing to the establishment of hybrid entrepreneurship, challenges of hybrid entrepreneurship and sustenance strategies thereof. To conduct the study in appropriate to meaningful conclusion the researcher has adopted the methodological assumption, guided by interpretivism paradigm, which led to the adoption of a qualitative research approach. This has enabled the researcher to gain an in-depth understanding of human behavior, and experience shared by hybrid entrepreneurs. As a result, this study was piloted with two participants before commencing with the main data collection process which entail 16 more participants. The pilot study was done to expose the researcher to the data collection process and to improve the questioning and probing skills of the researcher. Furthermore, thematic analysis process was adopted to deduce the meaning behind the participants’ words and experiences, with the use of ATLAS.ti. software to analyse data, code and develop themes. The findings showed that individuals are compelled to venture into hybrid entrepreneurship out of financial necessity, passion, gaps in employment and career enhancement opportunities (promotions). Also, it was found that the professional industries play a vital role in empowering hybrid entrepreneurs through equipping them with the knowledge and skills; also, family support and motivation, and community and social issues are also influential towards the establishment of hybrid entrepreneurship. Furthermore, the results have also shown, that hybrid entrepreneurs face difficulties with the management of time, overwork and fatigue, financial constraints, client mistrust and reliability issues - which hampers market and business operations. Therefore, in order for hybrid entrepreneurs to overcome these at some point they had to use their salaries to finance side- businesses; they normalise executing business tasks after working hours or in their free time. Also, they transfer the knowledge and skills across both spheres. They further eliminate untrusted clients and maintain a robust clientele that is profitable to the business, which helps to maintain the clientele, and sustain their businesses. This study is amongst the first to provide sustainable strategies towards guiding hybrid entrepreneurs to ensure survival. The study has further contributed to a reliable and comprehensive knowledge of this phenomenon through investigating challenges of hybrid entrepreneurship and the factors contributing to its establishment. Thus, it has enabled the identification of new factors, in addition to the established ones like financial supplement and passion. The recommended strategies for survival have opened a knowledge gap for future researchers, on the impact of hybrid entrepreneurship on economic growth, because when a business is sustained and generates income, it is likely to have an impact on economic growth. The study suffered from time constraints as it was supposed to be completed within a specific period but was delayed.