Looking at micro-entrerprise: elements for an alternative model doi: 10.5007/2175-7984.2010v9n17p205

Authors

  • Luiz Inácio Gaiger Universidade do Vale do Rio dos Sinos
  • Andressa da Silva Correa Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5007/%25x

Abstract

This article seeks to contrast the conventional model of small-scale entrepreneurship, centered around the development of individual abilities, with contributions coming from reflections on associative entrepreneurialism, as evidenced today through the Economics of Solidarity (Economia Solidária) program. The text brings together the major points emerging from critical analysis of small scale entrepreneurship that has been carried out under the auspices of the SEBRAE – Brazilian Service of Support for Small and Micro-enterprise (Serviço Brasileiro de Apoio às Micro e Pequenas Empresas),  the predominant conceptual and practical reference in this area in Brazil. This is followed by a view of entrepreneurialism anchored in studies of entrepreneurial ventures in which relational and cooperative elements explicitly play a relevant role. Such elements lead to the shaping of an alternative
model, distinct from conventional patterns in terms of understanding and attentiveness to the needs of organizations linked to the popular economy, whether individual or family businesses, or collective endeavors, such as informal production groups, associations and small cooperatives.

Author Biographies

Luiz Inácio Gaiger, Universidade do Vale do Rio dos Sinos

Professor Titular da Universidade do Vale do Rio dos Sinos (Unisinos - São Leopoldo, RS), coordena a Cátedra da UNESCO Trabalho e Sociedade Solidária e a Rede de Investigadores Latino-americanos de Sociologia Social e Solidária. Diretor da Sociedade Brasileira de Sociologia.

Andressa da Silva Correa, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul

Mestranda em Sociologia na Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul. Membro
do Grupo de Pesquisa em Economia Solidária, no qual foi bolsista de Iniciação
Científica.

Published

2010-01-01

Issue

Section

Thematic Dossier