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JOURNAL OF MARKETING DEVELOPMENT AND COMPETITIVENESS
Looking Out for the Little Guy: The Effects of Technical Assistance on Small
Business Financial Performance
Author(s): George Solomon, Vanessa Gail Perry
Citation: George Solomon, Vanessa Gail Perry, (2011) "Looking Out for the Little Guy: The Effects of Technical Assistance on Small
Business Financial Performance" Vol. 5, Iss. 4, pp. 21 - 31
Article Type: Research paper
Publisher: North American Business Press
Abstract:
Technical assistance has been shown to have a positive impact on new venture creation. This article seeks
to determine whether technical assistance has a similar impact on the financial performance of new
ventures and other small businesses. In addition, we examine whether some small businesses benefit more
from technical assistance than others. In this study, the authors measure the effects of firm
characteristics, management assistance and technical assistance on small business revenues and
profitability. Building on previous research on technical assistance, we propose that financial outcomes
for small businesses, such as market share, sales volume, cash flow, and profits, are a function of
characteristics of the firm as well as characteristics of the technical assistance provided. In particular,
we examine the effects of firm size measured in revenues, as well as technical assistance provider
characteristics, such as the primary industry in which the firm operates. In terms of management and
technical assistance, we test whether assistance with financial management, marketing strategy, human
resources, obtaining capital, etc. have a significant impact on financial outcomes. Implications for
practitioners, public policy and future research are discussed.
