How do parental leave policies influence mothers’ decision to become an entrepreneur? This study finds: A reduction in parental leave duration significantly lowers the likelihood that mothers start their own business. In contrast, more generous time provisions foster entrepreneurial activity – especially among mothers with strong family responsibilities. Higher parental allowance has a positive effect only for mothers under considerable family strain.
Policy Brief "Entrepreneurship in Focus" | 2025 Time or Money? Mothers and Start-up Decisions
Theunissen, P.; Kensbock, J. M.; Schüler, J.; Baum, M., Gerards, R. (2025): Zeit statt Geld? Was Mütter zur Gründung bewegt, in: FGF-Forschungsnetzwerk Entrepreneurship, Innovation und Mittelstand e.V. und IfM Bonn: Policy Brief "Unternehmertum im Fokus" 4/25, Bonn.