A Challenges–Adaptive Mechanisms–Results (CARE) Model for Indonesian Entrepreneurs with Disabilities

Abstract. This article explores challenges that motivate persons with disabilities to engage in entrepreneurship and adaptive mechanisms to overcome their challenges. The study expands the understanding of the initial challenges-adaptive mechanisms-results (CARE) model by including entrepreneurs with different disabilities who deal with various challenges and adaptive mechanisms to attain social, personal, and business-related goals. We conducted semi-structured interviews to explore the lived experiences of nine entrepreneurs with physical, sensory, or mental disabilities. Our empirical findings indicate that difficulties at the personal level decreased all respondents' job opportunities, which encouraged them to become entrepreneurs in striving for independent living. We find support from their circle, education, and technological advancements to have been the most effective adaptive mechanism strategies leading their entrepreneurial activities to success. The expanded CARE model contributes to the literature on entrepreneurship for persons with disabilities and provides insights potentially for all stakeholders supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem for persons with disabilities. Keywords: Challenges, adaptive mechanism, disability, disabled entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship