What is the Difference Between Entrepreneur and Intrapreneur?

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The main difference between an entrepreneur and an intrapreneur lies in the context in which they operate and the level of risk they assume. Here are the key differences between the two:

  1. Ownership: Entrepreneurs are the owners of their businesses, taking on all the risks and rewards that come with running a company. In contrast, intrapreneurs are employees in an existing organization who act like entrepreneurs, working on innovative projects within the company's framework.
  2. Resources: Entrepreneurs secure their own resources and funding for their ventures, while intrapreneurs rely on their company's resources.
  3. Risk: Entrepreneurs assume all the risks associated with their businesses, whereas intrapreneurs' risks are carried by the company.
  4. Autonomy: Entrepreneurs have complete control over their projects and businesses, while intrapreneurs have to work within an existing organization and gain approval from higher authorities.

Despite these differences, both entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs share some common traits, such as creativity, out-of-the-box thinking, and a desire to improve products or services and solve real-world problems. They also exhibit leadership abilities and are driven by an entrepreneurial mindset.

In summary, entrepreneurs are the creators and owners of their businesses, taking on the risks and rewards associated with them, while intrapreneurs work within existing organizations to bring innovation and improvement.

Comparative Table: Entrepreneur vs Intrapreneur

Here is a table comparing the differences between an entrepreneur and an intrapreneur:

Feature Entrepreneur Intrapreneur
Definition A person who establishes a new business with an innovative idea or concept. An employee of an organization who is authorized to work on a specific project, taking an entrepreneurial approach to their work within the organization.
Approach Intuitive Restorative
Resources Uses own resources or raises capital Uses resources provided by the company
Risk Bears risks and uncertainties of the business Company bears risks and uncertainties
Enterprise Newly established Existing one
Decision-making Independent decision-making authority Decision-making is subject to organizational rules and hierarchy.

Entrepreneurs are individuals who take a considerable amount of risk to own and operate a business with the aim of earning returns and rewards. They envision new opportunities, products, techniques, and business lines and coordinate all the activities to make them real.

Intrapreneurs, on the other hand, are employees within an existing organization who are authorized to work on a specific project. They take an entrepreneurial approach to their work within the organization, embracing innovation and working on new products or services that can further the company's growth objectives.