Micro Enterprise Development and Income Sustainability for Poverty Reduction A Literature Investigation

Micro Enterprise Development and Income Sustainability for Poverty Reduction

Overview

  • Published in: International Journal of Business and Technopreneurship, Volume 7, No. 1, Feb 2017

  • Authors: Muklis Lateh, Mohammad Delwar Hussain, Mohd Suberi Ab. Halim

  • The document discusses the significant role of micro enterprises in reducing poverty, especially in emerging economies.

  • It identifies challenges faced by micro entrepreneurs including personal qualifications, business start-up, survival, and growth.

Abstract

  • Micro enterprises play a critical role in poverty alleviation.

  • Entrepreneurship competencies positively affect income upliftment and poverty alleviation.

  • The study applies various statistical tools for analysis and contributes to discussions on micro enterprise development and poverty reduction.

  • Keywords: Micro Enterprise Development, Income Sustainability, Poverty Alleviation, Emergent Market Economy.

Introduction

  • Poverty affects approximately 2.47 billion people globally, often measured by income of USD 2 or less per day.

  • It causes insufficient access to basic needs like food, clothing, shelter, and education.

  • The definition of poverty encompasses a lack of income, assets, competence, and social resources.

  • An increase in income does not necessarily equate to poverty alleviation.

  • Entrepreneurship is presented as a vital approach to combat poverty and stimulate economic growth.

Methodology

  • The study uses a narrative literature review approach to assess micro enterprise development and its impact on poverty alleviation.

  • A broad range of academic and empirical literature sourced from various databases like Google Scholar and JSTOR.

  • The focus is on previous studies that articulate the relationship between micro enterprise initiatives and poverty elimination.

Findings from Previous Literatures

3.1 Conception of Poverty
  • High unemployment rates contribute to persistent poverty in developing nations.

  • Poverty results from insufficient financial resources, education, and healthcare.

  • Types of Poverty:

    • Absolute Poverty: Severe lack of basic human needs.

    • Relative Poverty: Lack of income necessary to meet living standards.

    • Social Exclusion: Denial of access to resources and normal societal relationships.

3.2 Conception of Micro Enterprise
  • Defined as small businesses operated by impoverished individuals or groups, often with external support.

  • Typically involves a small number of participants; micro enterprises are crucial for improving living standards in poverty-stricken areas.

  • They require recognition of their role in connecting training with income-generating capabilities.

3.3 Eradicating Poverty through Micro Enterprise Development
  • Micro enterprises enable individuals to create jobs and stimulate economic growth.

  • Entrepreneurship fosters income independence and creates social wealth via new industries and market opportunities.

  • Increased numbers of entrepreneurs correlate with reduced poverty rates.

  • Micro and small enterprises create significant employment and income, aiding in poverty alleviation.

  • Research supports that micro enterprise initiatives help raise incomes faster than control groups engaged in traditional employment.

Discussion and Conclusion

  • Micro enterprise development is linked significantly to income generation and poverty alleviation.

  • Entrepreneurs require specific skills for sustaining businesses, including education, managerial prowess, and entrepreneurial competencies.

  • Female entrepreneurs face additional challenges compared to their male counterparts, notably in investment and technical skills.

  • Government policies play a critical role in supporting micro enterprise growth.

  • Recommendations include enhanced training programs and support for female entrepreneurs, addressing financial barriers faced by micro enterprises.

References

  • A comprehensive list of academic references cited in the study includes works from various researchers discussing the intersection of microenterprise, entrepreneurship, and poverty reduction.