There are problems with this title. First, it might be interpreted to refer to a particular person. While we have a category on (and some lists of) successful and inspiring Pinoy Entrepreneurs, the thrust of this article is not to identify any particular Pinoy Entrepreneur, but to characterize an entrepreneur. Having a characterization would make it much easier to identify specific Pinoy Entrepreneurs.

Second, and more importantly, there is no generally-accepted definition of an entrepreneur. While the concept of entrepreneurship, as distinguished from business, has gained popularity in the Philippines in recent years, the agreement seems to be on the existence of disagreement as to its meaning. We now have various awards for entrepreneurs, but we may not have an idea how an entrepreneur is distinguished from the rest of the pack. We need to know how to pick out a Pinoy Entrepreneur because, among other reasons, this is a site for Pinoy Entrepreneurs.

Some schools of thought focus on the personal traits of an entrepreneur, while others on the behavior and acts. Some theories say that these traits are inborn and others say the entrepreneurial spirit is developed (majority of those who answered the poll agree that entrepreneurs are made). Entrepreneurs, to some, are those engaged in small and new businesses, while others say entrepreneurs are just as present in big, established businesses. Some say an entrepreneur creates something of value where there was nothing before, while others say that the entrepreneur also endows existing resources with enhanced potential for creating wealth.

The subject grew more complex as we read more about it. A certain theory on entrepreneurship may be more persuasive than another. Each one of us may have an existing idea on what an entrepreneur is. My wife, for instance, answered me that the entrepreneur is one who identifies and maximizes an opportunity. Fair enough, I said, and out of fear for my dear life, I restrained myself from saying that her answer merely scratches the surface of this concept.

We’ve come up with an initial working draft on this topic. But before we post the article on who are Pinoy Entrepreneurs, let’s first hear your inputs and thoughts on what is an entrepreneur. Please use the comment section below. A healthy discussion would be of great help to everyone. Thank you.

• Pinoy Entrepreneurs All
• Food for Thought for New Pinoy Entrepreneurs
• Poll: Are Pinoy Entrepreneurs Born or Made?
• Inspiring Stories of the Pinoy Entrepreneurs Community
• Characterizing Entrepreneurship: Who are Pinoy Entrepreneurs?
• Successful and Inspiring Pinoy Entrepreneurs
• Common Problems of Pinoy Entrepreneurs