As the breadth and empirical diversity of entrepreneurship research have increased rapidly during the last decade, the quest to find a "one-size-fits-all" general theory of entrepreneurship has given way to a growing appreciation for the importance of contexts. This promises to improve both the practical relevance and the theoretical rigor of research in this field. Entrepreneurship means different things to different people at different times and in different places and both its causes and its consequences likewise vary. For example, for some people entrepreneurship can be a glorious path to emancipation, while for others it can represent the yoke tethering them to the burdens of overwork and drudgery. For some communities it can drive renaissance and vibrancy while for others it allows only bare survival. In this book, we assess and attempt to push forward contemporary conceptualizations of contexts that matter for entrepreneurship, pointing in particular to opportunities generating new insights by attending to contexts in novel or underexplored ways. This book shows that the ongoing contextualization of entrepreneurship research should not simply generate a proliferation of unique theories - one for every context - but can instead result in better theory construction, testing and understanding of boundary conditions, thereby leading us to richer and more profound understanding of entrepreneurship across its many forms. Contextualizing Entrepreneurship Theory will critically review the current debate and existing literature on contexts and entrepreneurship and use this to synthesize new theoretical and methodological frameworks that point to important directions for future research.

Like much of SMEs research, innovation studies of small enterprises have commenced later and are less numerous. The focus of such studies remains high-technology enterprises, which continue to attract both academic and popular interest, oblivious to the innovative endeavours of people in traditional low-tech industries. This book attempts to address this imbalance through a comprehensive analysis of innovation in this largely neglected area. Based on case studies of seven small innovative food companies, this book presents an in-depth analysis of innovation in the Scottish food and drinks industry and unravels a lesser-known approach to effective low-cost product innovation, which is simple and economical, yet elegant and successful. Using careful data collection and rigorous statistical testing, the analysis and findings in this book address a wide spectrum of interests: academics in business schools, policy makers in governments and executives and entrepreneurs in food and other low-technology sectors.

The single most important task for a prospective franchisee (or small businessperson) is to prepare a realistic cash flow statement that accurately reflects the economic potential of a franchise (business). "How Much Can I Make?" is an insider's guide that provides historical sales, expense, and/or profit data on actual franchise operations to establish a solid basis for making these critical financial projections. Over 75 financial performance representations, prepared by the franchisors themselves, are included for major industry categories. The roster of franchisors runs from the McDonald's and 7-Elevens of the world to several newer, smaller franchises with significantly fewer operating units. Only about 55 percent of franchisors provide this information. Given that franchisors are not allowed to make, or even discuss, any financial projections other than those published in their franchise disclosure documents, this hard-to-obtain data is especially useful.
In addition, the author provides a detailed profile of each franchisor, its logo, and detailed worksheets, as well as his own insights into making meaningful projections.

Traditionally, analysis of strategic management has divided the focus between a business and corporate level. This text goes beyond that to help readers recognize the interplay of the "how" and "which" of strategy. It embraces the integrated nature of learning to avoid the compartmentalization of strategy concepts. Strategic Management in Emerging Markets: Aligning Business and Corporate Strategy has three uniquely valuable components. First, it identifies and integrates corporate and business strategy levels along with their co-evolution; enabling readers to better understand strategic alignment. Secondly, there is an explicit presentation of strategy for emerging markets which utilizes original theory and cases to help readers to better identify and succeed in high growth business contexts. Thirdly, it presents an integrative and comprehensive case study of an international corporation, Inchcape Inc., which is designed specifically to facilitate cumulative and holistic learning. The book focuses on newer aspects of strategy theory and the hallmarks of emerging markets, such as dynamic capabilities, environmental turbulence, and the difficulties associated with strategic choice and execution in complex business environments. An appreciation of the role of megatrends is also a key aspect since emerging markets evolve at much faster rates than slower growth developed economies. Appealing to practitioners and students of strategic management and international business, the book bridges conceptual and practical realms of strategy generating intellectual synergies for the reader and enhancing the learning experience.

Start a Business-We'll Show You How. Entrepreneur magazine's Startup series presents everything you need to know about starting and running more than 55 of today's hottest businesses. As a successful import/export agent, you can net a healthy six-figure income by matching buyers and sellers from around the globe, right from your own home. This book is loaded with valuable insights and practical advice for tapping into highly lucrative global markets. You'll learn every aspect of the startup process, including: Choosing the most profitable goods to buy and sell Setting up and maintaining a trade route Using the internet to simplify your transactions How the government can help you find products and customers Essential trade law information to keep your business in compliance How to choose a customs broker The latest government policies Proven methods for finding contacts in the United States and abroad Plus, you'll gain the tricks of the trade from successful importers/exporters and hundreds of valuable resources help you become a player in the lucrative world of international exchange.

This collective book offers a cross-country perspective on the internationalisation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Scholars from prestigious institutions in Europe, North America, Australia and China provide new insights on how SMEs develop and perform their international activities. Their innovative approach is particularly useful to understand the major role played by SMEs in today's global economy. The authors identify key factors that facilitate the international expansion of SMEs. They explain how SMEs can succeed in their development in both mature and emerging economies. Their findings are based on quantitative surveys and in-depth case studies, and the resulting recommendations are provided to help SME managers increase the performance of their international activities.

Small Farms Can Equal Big Pay!

Choose the right products, process and market them effectively, and you too can join the ranks of top-earning farmers, some of whom gross nearly $100,000 per acre. Whether you're buying a new farm or jump-starting an old one, Ron Macher's down-to-earth advice on planning, farming, and marketing you'll soon make your farm profitable -- and find satisfaction doing it.

Macher shares proven methods for farming smarter and explores today's new crops, new livestock, and new markets that translate into new ways to make money. Making Your Small Farm Profitable explains how to:

* Exploit lucrative niche markets that others overlook

* Plan for optimal farm efficiency

* Determine equipment requirements and estimate machinery costs

* Compare costs against profit for common vegetables and livestock

* Sell your products a dozen different ways

This book provides a comprehensive examination of the many factors that influence the internationalisation of SMEs into China. SMEs represent more than 50 percent of the economic activity and employment in China. This book explores the experiences of SMEs that have internationalised to China from Australia. Australian SMEs are at the forefront of foreign SMEs in China with over 5000 Australian SMEs currently operating in China and a long history of association. The book is unique in that it presents a multidisciplinary perspective of the subject, considering seven different discipline perspectives (internationalisation, innovation, entrepreneurship, networks, resources, human resource management and barriers and liabilities). This makes the book one of the most comprehensive treatments of internationalisation to China so far. Each chapter in the book deals with a different perspective and includes own separate analysis. The chapters commence with a consideration of the current knowledge on internationalising to China for each perspective, analyse the interviews of representatives of 35 SMEs operating in China and then draw conclusions which are relevant to students, scholars and professionals. Each chapter includes extensive examples from the interviews. This integrated book is particularly useful for small business owners, international business management consultants, instructors and students.

Covering the latest breaking news in Google Ads, this sixth edition introduces revised, expanded and new chapters covering Enhanced Campaigns, Google Ads Express, Google's Product Listing Ads, and more. Changes in Big Data advertising are also revealed and expanded sections and necessary updates have been added throughout. Updates specific to this edition include: Powerful bidding strategies using remarketing lists for search ads New ad extension features Automation capabilities using scripts Bonus Online Content that includes links to dozens of resources and tutorials covering: registering a domain name, setting up a website, selecting an email service, choosing a shopping cart service, finding products to sell, and starting up an Google Ads account for your business Readers are given the latest information paired with current screenshots, fresh examples, and new techniques. Coached by Google Ads experts Perry Marshall, Mike Rhodes, and Bryan Todd advertisers learn how to build an aggressive, streamlined campaign proven to increase search engine visibility, consistently capture clicks, double website traffic, and increase sales. Whether a current advertiser or new to AdWords, this guide is a necessary handbook.

Should you take the time to visit customers and suppliers in person? Absolutely.

Who makes the best accountant? A pessimist.

What do you do with a good employee who is a jerk? Fire him

Whether you are a young company that's just starting out or a mature business looking to grow, Bob pritchett's hands-on advice and practical examples are a must-read for every manager, business owner, and entrepreneur.

Inside this book, you will not find Thirteen Incontrovertible Laws of Excellence. You won't find motivational cliches to frame and put on your desk. And there are no step-by-step instructions for writing a business plan.

Instead, in "Fire Someone Today," you'll read what Pritchett has discovered through his years of experience as an entrepreneur and small business owner. It is a book about what to do, what not to do, and why. For "your" business, it could be that one piece of advice that makes all the difference . . . and even give you a few laughs along the way.

"A year's worth of lunches with someone who has been way down the road and taken a lot of lumps." ―Guy Kawasaki, Author, "The Art of the Start"

"Made you think And that's more than you can hope for from the typical business book, that's for sure. Everyone who manages anyone needs to think about the stuff inside." ―Seth Godin, Author, "All Marketers are Liars"

"Bob Pritchett has written a classic for anyone running or starting up a small to mid-sized business. There's compelling information on every page." ―Pat Williams, Senior Vice President, Orlando Magic

""Fire Someone Today" is a breakthrough for those of us who hate wading through theoretical business books." ―Kevin Cable, Cofounder, Cascadia Capital

A refreshing approach to entrepreneurship centered on staying small and avoiding growth - maximizing happiness, sustainability and profitability. Paul Jarvis left the corporate world when he realized that working in a high-pressure, high-profile world was not his idea of success. Instead, he now works for himself out of his home, and lives a much more rewarding and productive life. He no longer has to contend with an environment that constantly demands more productivity, more output and more growth. In Company of One, Jarvis explains how you can do the same, including: * Planning to set up * Determining desired revenues * Keeping clients happy * And, of course, doing all this on your own. "Jarvis makes a compelling case for making your business better instead of bigger. A must-read for any entrepreneur who prioritizes a rich life over riches." -CAL NEWPORT, bestselling author of DEEP WORK and DIGITAL MINIMALISM "You're not a machine, so why would you run your business like one? Company of One shows you another way. If you've ever wondered how to have a business that works for you-instead of the other way around-you need this book." -CHRIS GUILLEBEAU, bestselling author of SIDE HUSTLE and THE $100 STARTUP

Let Inc. catapult your company to success. To put a business on the map, nothing beats great marketing. No matter how original your idea or ambitious your dreams, the company will stall without a plan to spread the word, build momentum, and drive sales. But how many entrepreneurs excel at marketing? If you are like most, you are focused on building your product or service...and don't know how to execute a marketing strategy or measure the results. No one is better positioned than Inc. to help you get up to speed fast. For years, Inc. has covered the innovative marketing used by thousands of tiny startups that turned into household names. Now, Marketing Your Startup shares these compelling stories and spotlights strategies for igniting growth, including how: Dollar Shave Club mastered the inexpensive viral video- and rocketed to success * Casper combined content marketing, creative branding, and old-fashioned subway ads to convince consumers to buy mattresses a whole new way * SoulCycle's obsessive fixation on their brand fueled their rise from spin studio to cult-like fitness sensation Through firsthand insights from founders and helpful how-to guidelines, you'll learn to define your brand, market position, and customers, then unleash the right mix of tactics through the right channels: social media, email and direct mail, content marketing, SEO, media ads, events, guerilla marketing, influencers, cause marketing, and more. Whether you've got a robust budget or you're bootstrapping your way to the top, Marketing Your Startup gives you the tools to launch an empire.

With stories and advice from a fleet of trusted experts, this book is for anyone wishing to get their business off the ground and become the next wildly successful entrepreneur everyone is reading about. For decades, makers, doers, and dreamers have turned to Inc. for help in getting their businesses off the ground. The insanely successful entrepreneurs behind organizations like Skullcandy, Spanx, Elon Musk, and Airbnb learned lessons at every stage, experienced unexpected setbacks, and in the end triumphed wildly. All along, Inc. was there capturing it all so that others could experience even greater successes than these titans of business. From brainstorming to crowdfunding to building partnerships, the book walks new and aspiring founders through seven crucial stages, including: Establishing a brilliant business idea Selecting the best structure and strategy for your startup Getting the word out and building clientele Preparing to go global Learn how Elon Musk stays wildly productive. Discover how Sarah Blakely got the inspiration for Spanx. Read the stories of how a hashtag accelerated Airbnb's success and how Warby Parker shook up the eyewear industry with its innovative, socially conscious business model. Start a Successful Business gathers these important lessons into a single path-charting guide.

The tools you need to follow your dream of starting and running an online business! With the right knowledge and resources, you can take action to start the online business you've been dreaming of. This comprehensive guide provides tips and tricks for turning your dream into a reality. The sixth edition of Starting an Online Business: All-in-One For Dummieswill teach you the basics and beyond. It will prepare you to set up your business website, offer your products in an online store, and keep accurate books. The authors help you navigate the primary legal, accounting, and security challenges related to running an online business. Fund your business for success and future growth Use SEO strategically to drive traffic to a well-designed site Market your business effectively as an entrepreneur Stand out, build customer relationships, and sell on social media Keep up with ecommerce trends to stay a step ahead With some guidance, you can find your market niche, create a business plan, and decide on a revenue model. Then, it's time to set up shop! Starting an Online Business can help bring your dream of an online business to life and guide you on the road to success.

The book focuses on the historical, political, economic, and cultural elements of Korea and the strong influence these have on women leaders in the nation. It examines challenges and opportunities for women leaders as they try to balance their professional and personal lives. A team of leading experts familiar with the aspirations and frustrations of Korean women offer insight into the coexistence of traditional and modern values. It is an eye-opening look at the convergence and divergence across Korean sectors that international leadership researchers, students, and managers need to know in order to realize and appreciate the potential of Korean women leaders.

Creative Truth is your playbook for starting, building, and enjoying a profitable design business. Whether you're a solo freelancer working from home or a small group of creative entrepreneurs ready to get to the next level, this is your roadmap to success. You're the CEO, CFO, CTO, Secretary, Janitor, Office Manager, and everything in between. Finding a balance between running the business and doing great creative work is a constant struggle. From learning how to price your work and manage your time, to setting up your business and defining your market, Brad Weaver covers everything designers need to know to run a studio without losing heart. Highlights: Real numbers, real tools, and best practices in a toolkit that you can start using immediately in your business. A companion website that offers up-to-date resources, articles, tools, and discussions, allowing readers to continue learning as they grow. Practical tips for getting clients, being more profitable, building your network, managing your operations, getting things done, hiring help, managing contractors, and finding joy along the way.

Practical and proven masterclasses for simple and effective small business marketing This straightforward, practical book cuts through the morass of marketing theory to reveal the practical steps that small businesses can take to achieve phenomenal marketing results. Presenting fifteen comprehensive masterclasses, marketing expert Dee Blick presents easy-to-understand and easy-to-implement strategies to increase sales, prevent marketing mistakes, and build the foundations of a customer-driven brand. These fifteen comprehensive masterclasses can be implemented immediately, and cover such topics as marketing plans, copywriting, social media marketing, and public relations. * Written by successful author and marketing guru who has worked with small businesses for twenty-seven years * Includes practical, effective marketing strategies for every small business * Appropriate for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and practicing marketing managers When it comes to marketing a small business, success means getting a big impact from a small investment. The 15 Essential Marketing Masterclasses for Your Small Business gives entrepreneurs and small business owners proven strategies for effective, profitable marketing.

You can try self-employment! Successfully self-employed autistic author Robyn Steward shares her keen insights about the valuable skills and unique visions self-employed autistic people bring to the job market. This book will teach you how to bring these strengths into the world of self-employment, so that you can follow your passions as part of the community. Featuring first-hand accounts from self-employed autistic people in businesses ranging from arts and crafts to web developer and book shop owner, this book outlines the common challenges you may encounter and ways to overcome them. Based on a survey of over 100 self-employed autistic people all over the world and peer reviewed by experts, it covers everything you need to get started, from networking and marketing products to managing tax and business records and more. It also includes details about benefit systems, getting work and bookkeeping. Written specifically for autistic people, people with learning / intellectual disabilities, and the people who support them, this book is the essential guide to starting your own business.

"The system you need to make bold changes in your career" Daniel H. Pink We're experiencing a work revolution, with an unprecedented opportunity to reimagine how, when, and where we do what we do. Now is the perfect time to take more control over your work/life and maybe even finally take the leap into going it alone, whether by starting your own business or turning your passion into a career. Ollie Henderson shares the lessons he's learned by interviewing entrepreneurs, business leaders, and world-renowned experts on his chart-topping podcast Future Work/Life. Forget work/life balance, the secret to navigating a career transition today is to create a flywheel that aligns all parts of your work and life and harness small wins to help build the momentum you need to succeed. Take control of your long-term future using a proven step-by-step process Develop the confidence to transform your career by focusing on becoming an expert in your niche Adopt a creative and experimental approach to your work/life that delivers consistent, measurable results Cultivate a network of global collaborators to support your transition and generate new opportunities Experienced founder and CEO Ollie Henderson pivoted his career while juggling the pleasures and pressures of raising a young family. He believes work/life balance is a myth. Rather than seeing career and personal life as two opposing forces, Ollie argues that the secret is to design an integrated approach that allows them to work in harmony.

This unique text focuses upon the inherent difficulties associated with small firm contractual relationships.
The authors investigate:
* The economic interests and incentives associated with various small firm ownership and financial structures.
* The difficulties in monitoring and enforcing contractual obligations.
* The problems of obtaining reliable information on firm performance.
* The importance of internal decision making and the management of change.
* The impact of legislation and other non-governmental forms of regulation in small business relationships.
The analysis and discussion of these issues draws together for the first time recent theoretical and empirical developments from the economics of industrial organization and labour and financial economics.

Written especially for owners and employees of small businesses, as well as students in this specialized area, this book, originally published in 1989, is a concise introduction to marketing in the small business. It focuses on the nature of marketing and the benefits of its applications, even where resources are limited. Stressing the marketing strategy issues and the need for marketing information, it discusses the scope and limitations of marketing and its relevance for small businesses. The book covers specific areas of marketing decisions relating to product, pricing, distribution and promotion and it also deals with specialist themes, notably international and government markets, franchising and technology. Case examples are included throughout the text, and detailed case studies are given at the end of each chapter.