Embedded Action in Disembedded Markets: Restoring Balance Through Indigenous Entrepreneurship

Abstract

Previous research has shown the positive impacts on nature and society of indigenous venturing from remote contexts. However, tensions might emerge when social and ecological indigenous values drive entrepreneurs within market-based, disembedded settings. These tensions may compromise the maintenance of social and ecological well-being through venturing. To explore this, we conducted a qualitative study with urban Mapuche entrepreneurs from Chile. Key patterns and themes were identified using thematic analysis. We found a mutually reinforcing relationship between entrepreneurship and well-being. This reciprocal interaction allowed for defining entrepreneurship in terms of Mapuche Good-living (and vice versa), as they both sought to balance human, natural and spiritual well-being. Implications on relational worldviews, well-being and spirituality are discussed.