This study explores the different pathways to entrepreneurial well-being for male and female entrepreneurs by simultaneously considering the conditions of the work-family interface and entrepreneurial identity. Drawing upon role congruence theory and job demand-resource theory, we propose that, influenced by role stereotypes, male entrepreneurs' well-being is determined more by their work than their family, while female entrepreneurs' well-being is determined more by their family than their work. Furthermore, indicated by entrepreneurial identity, when entrepreneurship implies more resources than demands for entrepreneurs, work-family enrichment becomes more important than conflict, and vice versa. Our arguments are supported by the results of fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis and regression analysis conducted on a field survey of new venture founders in China. We contribute to a nuanced understanding of the gender differences in pathways to entrepreneurial well-being.
