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Sunny Jeong |
Abstract: The Role of Social Networks in Entrepreneurship Social connections play a critical role in initiating and sustaining entrepreneurship. The decision to start a business in a small town, for example, often depends on the social network of the entrepreneur - friends and family can provide needed information and other resources. This research project aims to extend our understanding about the role of social capital in entrepreneurship. The relationships between social resources in communities and business development, and the roles of strong and weak ties in new economic opportunities will be explored. Other factors contributing to differences in the formation of social capital and its influence on business success by gender, ethnicity and location will also be examined. While few in tourism have addressed issues of community development in conjunction with social analysis of community relations, fewer have done it in the context of ethnic and racial communities. A densely knit rural Amish community in Illinois is the focus of this study. Data will be obtained through in-depth interviews and observation during stays with members of the community. The outcome will include presentation of the results at a social networks conference. |