JOURNAL OF MARKETING DEVELOPMENT AND COMPETITIVENESS
A Profile of Micro-Entrepreneurship in Western Maryland: How Demographic
Variables Affect These Nascent Engines of Opportunity
Author(s): Martha Mattare, Michael Monahan, Amit Shah
Citation: Martha Mattare, Michael Monahan, Amit Shah, (2011) "A Profile of Micro-Entrepreneurship in Western Maryland: How Demographic
Variables Affect These Nascent Engines of Opportunity" Vol. 5, Iss. 3, pp. 127 - 138
Article Type: Research paper
Publisher: North American Business Press
Abstract:
In an area of the state that has seen its manufacturing base decimated, the entrepreneurial spirit is
resurging through micro business which compromise 88 % of all businesses in Maryland and jobs for
over one-half million people. The first step in a state-wide study, a survey was mailed to micro enterprises
in two counties in Western Maryland; Allegany and Washington, both of which are part of Appalachia.
Findings from the study show a healthy number of microenterprises at work earning over $100k, with
many operating from home, and educational and gender breakdowns that were contrary to population
demographics.