Entrepreneur: GCSE Business Definition

What is an entrepreneur?

In GCSE Business, an entrepreneur is defined as someone who is willing to take a risk in starting up or running a business.

Entrepreneurs start up or run businesses for a wide range of reasons. These include the desire to be their own boss, to pursue their interests or passions or simply because they have a great idea.

Reasons for starting up or running a business

Entrepreneur is French in origin and means ‘opening taker’. This is a great way to understand that entrepreneurs pursue an opportunity. In doing so, they accept a range of risks. For example, they may risk their own money, the security of employment, or their reputation. They also put their time, ideas, effort, and energy into the enterprise. 

In return, entrepreneurs hope to achieve a range of rewards. These can be financial rewards, such as profit or the value of their investment growing. They may also enjoy non-financial rewards, such as personal satisfaction or a better work-life balance. 

Entrepreneur Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams

Save My Exams has a great range of resources to explore the topic of entrepreneurs further. 

Read our GCSE Business entrepreneurship revision notes, or test your knowledge of entrepreneurs with our exam questions to improve your grades. 

Explore GCSE Business Revision Resources