ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the state of micro-venturing programs and examine ways in which major corporations have successfully launched sustainable, micro-ventures at the bottom of the economic program. Hundreds of governmental, non-governmental organizations and schools have programs of all types designed to assist individuals who desire to start a business. The educational needs of Micro-entrepreneurs at the idea and launch phases of their ventures are homogenous. Porter's seminal value chain research argued that firms increase their profitability by building bargaining advantage with suppliers and buyers along the value chain. Starbucks has made a concerted effort to establish a supply chain of coffee from farmers living at the bottom of the economic pyramid. The distribution or franchise micro-venturing model is a way for existing companies to get their products and/or services into the bottom of the tier customers. The Amy Biehl Foundation has launched micro ventures through its bread operation.
