Abstract
Our paper addresses individual abilities and motivational factors of entrepreneurs by investigating whether and how variations in the ambition to become an entrepreneur may impact subsequent entrepreneurial success. Utilizing a representative longitude United States database (PSED II), we develop and test hypotheses that compare the antecedents and goals of individuals who founded a successful business with those who failed. While previous research has argued that highly capable and highly motivated entrepreneurs are important preconditions of new venture success, our analyses show that the bases and goals of successful and unsuccessful entrepreneurial ambitions matter. Different theoretical explanations are discussed and promising avenues for future research are highlighted.