Entrepreneurship, small business and economic growth

Abstract

Looks at the relationship between small business and entrepreneurship and also the differences between the two. Stresses that both are important separately and, in addition, notes where they overlap. Posits that in the early part of the last century small businesses were both vehicles for entrepreneurship and sources of employment and income but, although still important in the post‐war years, large firms made great inroads in the 1960s and 1970s. Concludes that government’s central role in entrepreneurialism for the economy is, by its very nature, enabling. Furthermore, entrepreneurship is acknowledged as a driver for economic growth, competitiveness and job creation.

Citation

Thurik, R. and Wennekers, S. (2004), "Entrepreneurship, small business and economic growth", Journal of Small Business and Enterprise Development, Vol. 11 No. 1, pp. 140-149. https://doi.org/10.1108/14626000410519173