Self-made? The most successful independent ventures are often backed by legacy money or networks.

A study of successful entrepreneurs finds a high level of emotional intelligence and sociability, along with a marked need to dominate.

Women are more likely to be excluded from key networks, less likely to have had managerial experience, and have fewer mentors to signpost the way forward.

Research shows that entrepreneurs are surprisingly resistant to risk.

Does self-employment open up new opportunities or exploit a vulnerable workforce?

Some scholarly sources behind the origins of Silicon Valley and the tech sector