A significant 74% of entrepreneurs around the world started businesses in search of an opportunity, rather than out of necessity, according to the 2017/18 Global Report from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM).
Fifty-four economies participated in the GEM 2017/18 survey, covering 68% of the global population and 86% of the global GDP.Key Findings
Innovation is highest in North America, at 40%. This is measured by the extent to which entrepreneurs are introducing new products unknown to all or some 
customers and offered by few or no competitors.
Thirty percent of North American entrepreneurs expect to create at least six jobs in the next five years.
In developing economies, more than half of all entrepreneurs operate in wholesale and retail. In contrast, 61% of entrepreneurs in North America operate in the technology, finance, and professional services sectors.
“The high levels of innovation, growth-oriented entrepreneurship, and startup activity in the technology, finance, and professional services sectors distinguish entrepreneurship in North America from other regions,” said Donna Kelley (photo), Professor at Babson College and board member of the Global Entrepreneurship Research Association, which oversees GEM. “Entrepreneurs here are the key drivers of knowledge-based and human capital business activity. They are improving people’s lives through new and advanced products and services, creating jobs, and demonstrating a clear impact not only in their society but around the world.”
Latin America and the Caribbean, and North America, show the highest rates of female entrepreneurship (17% and 13%). These two regions also have the highest rates of youth entrepreneurship (17% and 14%).