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Analysis of Small and Microenterprise Programs: Implications for Urban Economic Development Policy Author: Margaret Etukudo Dissertation School: University of Illinois at Chicago Pages: 257 Publication Date: March 1998 Availability: Access Number: 9963 Abstract: A study that examines the effectiveness of small business and microenterprise development programs was carried out using both descriptive and quantitative analyses. A variety of methods including site visits, participant observation, classroom evaluations, focus groups and periodic reports were used to gather data. With three different standardized questionnaires, telephone interviews were conducted with program managers and program participants in Chicago, as well as influential Nigerians at home and abroad. Developing two indices of success programs are successful if they have above average rate of assisting participants to start or expand a business, and/or transfer the skills gained from the programs to wage employment. Analysis identified various components that are associated with program success. These include program objectives and principles, target groups, funding and ownership, staffing, type and method of assistance, recruitment and selection procedure, public policy, progress monitoring and adoption of lessons from evaluations. The study also assessed the factors and practices that are less influential to effectiveness, some of which are program premises, meeting place, type of support institution, the frequency of annual provision, racial or gender preferences and high education of participants.
The findings revealed four models of service delivery approach as fragmentary, focused, complementary and comprehensive. The comprehensive approach is most effective in assisting participants of varied backgrounds to start and expand a business and also to transfer the skills acquired from the program to secure wage employment. Although all the models were helpful to the participants in one way or another, microenterprise is not yet at the level to stimulate sustained economic development. However, the study offers hope that in combination with small business development and other strategy, urban economic development can be achieved. On globalization and technology transfer to the less advantaged economies, the comprehensive approach is most suitable for the Nigerian population and could be adapted for effective implementation despite socioeconomic, cultural and political adversities. This calls for changes in public policy in support of extensive and more committed microenterprise and small business development efforts. |
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