ABSTRACT

Micro and small enterprises (MSEs) have been recognized as a major contemporary source of employment and income in a growing number of developing countries. Yet, relatively little is known about the characteristics and patterns of change in these enterprises. This volume examines the dynamics of MSEs in the development process. Drawing on a unique set of surveys conducted in twelve countries in Africa and Latin America the authors map the patterns of change in MSEs in the developing world.
Subjects covered include:
* significance of new start and closure rates of MSEs
* factors involved in expansion rates and growth patterns of MSEs
* the role of gender in MSEs evolution.

chapter |9 pages

Introduction

chapter |18 pages

MSE dynamics

Theory and literature review

chapter |10 pages

MSEs and the macroeconomy

chapter |9 pages

Problems faced by MSEs

chapter |11 pages

Summary and implications