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.

Entrepreneurship is the engine that drives any successful industry or economy. In the rapidly evolving hospitality, tourism and leisure sector worldwide this is particularly true. This new text is designed to develop a greater understanding of the process and context for entrepreneurship as well as to provide key concepts which will enable the reader to become more entrepreneurial themselves. The text unites appropriate theory with copious real world examples giving the student, manager or trainer a powerful framework for understanding every aspect of this vital business function. Rigorously developed by authors with wide teaching and industry experience it contains: *Clear learning objectives and teaching structure *Up-to-date cases throughout *The widest possible coverage of the latest research and literature *A clear focus on the dynamic hospitality, tourism and leisure sector. Entrepreneurship in the Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Industries is an essential teaching tool and reference on all serious academic and professional courses and gives a uniquely powerful overview of the subject for students and trainees.

Strategies for Growth in SMEs explores for the first time the role of information and information systems (IS) concepts in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Most IS research focuses on large firms, yet the majority of firms in most economies are SMEs. The book considers the applicability of IS theory and practice to SMEs and develops new theories that are relevant to these firms.Composed of 6 sections, it covers, amongst other things; the nature of SMEs, the background to IS, and SMEs' use of IS, issues of IS strategy and planning in SMEs, the way that firms can transform through use of IS, evaluation, IS flexibility, business process re-engineering, resource-based strategy and knowledge management, the appropriateness of existing theories and the development of new models to address SME-specific issues. The final section of the book reviews the learning in the previous chapters and poses future agendas for research.Written by two of the leading figures in the field, this book will be essential reading for researchers in IS and SMEs, students on entrepreneurship or IS courses, and others that focus on SMEs.* A unique text relating IS theory to SMEs* Benefit from the authors' years of experience in the field* Familiarise yourself with this growth area for research and courses

Regional development is a broad term but can be seen as a general effort to reduce regional disparities by supporting (employment and wealth-generating) economic activities in regions. In the past, regional development policy tended to try to achieve these objectives by means of large-scale infrastructure development and by attracting inward investment” (OECD, 2014).A territorial and regional approach to development is crucial in addressing regional challenges, regional economic competitiveness, and reducing socio-economic discrepancies. This book provides a forum to articulate and discuss Africa’s regional development issues in view of the rising opportunities within the African region. This volume contains 14 chapters and is organized in four sections: Introduction; Industry, Trade and Investment in Africa; Agricultural Services and the Water-energy-food Nexus in Africa; and Environmental and Cultural Dimensions to Africa’s Regional Development.

The African Development Bank's (AfDB) Addis Ababa Forum in June 2003 focused on the role of women entrepreneurs in private sector development, poverty reduction, and sustainable growth and development. It provided an opportunity for the AfDB and the International Labour Office (ILO) to join forces using their complementary expertise in support of women-owned businesses in Tanzania, Ethiopia and Zambia. This report is based on the country assessment for Kenya, where the ILO has been researching and supporting women's entrepreneurship. Examining such issues as the economic context, micro-finance.