2002
Microbusiness – A Sustainable
Option for
By
There is an Iroquois belief that in our deliberations we should
consider the impact of our decisions on the next seven generations. Give some
thought to what
Our state’s economic history, largely built on extractive and
manufacturing activity, has made us dependent on wage-based jobs. These “old”
industries are no longer the powerful economic engines they once were.
The
time is at hand for
The
value of a diversified economy and having control of one’s economic destiny
cannot be over-emphasized. In order for people in
Equally important is the long-term impact of an economic activity
on the community’s natural and human resources. In order for economic activity
to truly prosper, it must be sustainable - able to meet the needs
of the present without compromising the ability of
future generations to meet their own needs.
Business ownership is one of the fastest growing segments of the
national economy. Reflecting this trend, traditional
small business is alive and expanding in our state. Perhaps most exciting is
the fact that
Through
microbusinesses – small-scale, usually home-based, businesses with five or
fewer employees –
-MORE-
“Microbusiness” does not
mean “microprofit.” Many microbusinesses do operate on a small supplemental scale,
but many are incredibly profitable.
Often,
people operate a microbusiness while also working for
an employer. Instead of viewing this part-time business activity as a “mere
hobby,” it is seen as an “insurance policy” against life disruption when/if the
wage-based job disappears.
Starting
and operating a microbusiness: helps people create and retain jobs that build
on their strengths; increases social capital by tightening ties to local
communities; and enables them to affect positive change in other aspects of
their lives.
Microbusinesses
enable people to stay in and help build their communities, an important value
for many
People who operate microbusinesses tend to be knowledgeable and
aware of the immediate and future impact of their business activities. They are
closely connected to their enterprises and understand the importance of
conserving resources. Also, because they operate their businesses “at home,”
they are interested in helping to improve – not exploit - the community’s
quality of life.
Initial
economic research indicates that 10 percent of the
There are
numerous extended families involved in microbusiness. For example, one
entrepreneur who lives in a rural county of our state has a flourishing herb
and flower business and her spouse operates a stonework business; together they
also provide landscaping services. Three relatives nearby - an artisan, a
commercial artist, and a woodworker – often collaborate with them on marketing and
production opportunities.
These
microbusiness activities are significant sources of household income for this
family. In fact, it is rare to find a family where no one is engaged in some
form of entrepreneurship. Many people operate a variety of microbusinesses
throughout the year. In many ways, it is an important part of our state’s
culture and heritage.
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By providing training, access to high-end markets, and
exposure within the community, the Center for Economic Options is able to help
rural entrepreneurs develop their skills and grow their businesses to the level
they want.
This is an important message for young people too. If we
can engage youth in entrepreneurialism, perhaps they will consider staying in
their communities and starting their own businesses instead of believing their
only option is to leave the state to find work.
With
the growing success and potential of microbusiness development, particularly in
rural communities, discussions about
Sustainable
development is a choice, and one
embraced by many microbusiness owners. Let us broaden the discussion to include
all economic development decisions. You’ll have a chance to do that on Sept. 21
from
“Building
Our Economy: Coal and Beyond” is the first program in the Legacy series and
will be simulcast on all
A lot has been “taken away” from our state and it is time for us
to define, retain and build our own sustainable wealth. You can help! A great
first step would be participating in the process.
More information about
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