This article describes how the entrepreneurial mindset is comprised of two predominant orientations, one toward finding and selecting potential solutions, the other focused on implementation and execution of these solutions. We explore this duality of the entrepreneurial mindset and note its role in moving forward the field’s understanding of this elusive concept. Specifically, we argue that entrepreneurs cycle between these two orientations in order to learn about their nascent opportunity and to continue to move it forward. Our work addresses prior theoretical inconsistencies and highlights implications for future research, measurement, and pedagogical approaches.

Key issues: The employment status of entrepreneurial nurses represent an important difference in their activities, challenges and motivations. Conclusions: Entrepreneurial nurses may act as nurse entrepreneurs or nurse intrapreneurs. These roles are empirically rooted in the field of nursing, and theoretically rooted in the field of entrepreneurship. Implications for Nursing Management: Entrepreneurial nurses are influenced by the support they get and the challenges they face in the healthcare system. Knowing the characteristics of entrepreneurial nurses are important for nurse managers, as they lead employees who may become nurse entrepreneurs or nurse intrapreneurs.

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