Youth Perspectives on Business Futures in Ethiopia: A Mixed-Methods Study of Aspirations and Realities (2010–2025)

This mixed-methods study investigates the evolving entrepreneurial aspirations of Ethiopian youth, with a particular focus on gender disparities, within the nation’s contemporary economic context. It addresses a critical gap in understanding how young people, especially young women, conceptualise and navigate entrepreneurial futures amidst structural constraints. The research employed a sequential explanatory design, beginning with a survey of 400 youths (aged 18–30) in Addis Ababa and Hawassa. This was followed by in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 40 purposively selected participants to elucidate the survey findings. Quantitative results indicated a significant aspirational shift towards technology and creative sectors, though marked gender disparities in access to capital and networks persisted. Qualitative analysis nuanced this picture, illustrating how young women strategically navigate familial expectations and structural barriers, often framing their business ambitions as community-oriented social enterprises. The study concludes that while Ethiopian youth are increasingly ambitious and digitally-engaged, a profound disconnect remains between their innovative aspirations and the realities of accessing finance and mentorship. Its significance lies in contributing empirically to African feminist entrepreneurship scholarship, demonstrating the necessity for policy frameworks that move beyond generic youth support to intentionally address gendered structural impediments. The findings imply that fostering inclusive growth requires programmes co-designed with youth to bridge this aspiration-reality gap.