The mentor and the entrepreneur: a study in relationships

Extensive literature exists pertaining to the topic of mentors and mentoring. To date by far the bulk of mentoring literature reflects activity in intra-organizational and corporate settings. The largest proportion of this literature and the resultant application of the term mentor in the workplace context has its origins in the US. The limited empirical research reflects this afore mentioned agenda, however, the principles and concepts applied to the term “mentor” within such settings are increasingly being transposed to the environment of the developing entrepreneur. A process of discovery has commenced, to explore the concepts of mentors and mentoring, and to better understand the role of such significant others in the start up and growth phases of new venture formation.