SME Start-ups prior and after the Financial Crisis. Evidence for EU Countries

      Аннотация: The 2008 financial crisis has triggered a reappraisal of SMEs, especially their role for the economic recovery. The role of start-up activity has been emphasized for scaling down the excessive levels of unemployment. The book primarily introduces the concept of SMEs with focus on start-ups and the challenges they face in a recessive economy. The empirical research uses panel data for the analysis of the change in the causal relationship between the indicators for entrepreneurship and start-up activity before and after the crisis. The data is focused on the territory of the European Union (EU). Nevertheless, the findings provide valuable knowledge in the field of entrepreneurship, especially on indicators driving start-up activity. The results urge for a more contextual approach when addressing problems and challenges of entrepreneurs. The research is expected to be of particular interest for policy makers aiming to revive the growth of the EU through increased entrepreneurial start-up activity. The book also provides valuable information for researchers, students and entrepreneurs seeking to better understand the post-crisis business environment for start-ups.

Ключевые слова: Entrepreneurship, EU, Financial crisis, SME, Start-ups