Entrepreneurship in Nebraska: Conditions, Attitudes, and Actions

This book investigates the vital role of entrepreneurship in the Nebraska economy. It presents the business and economic conditions that affect entrepreneurship in both the short and long run. Using Gallup's extensive survey findings, it reveals the attitudes of small business owners and the general public about such topics as starting a business, entrepreneurship education, economic development, and business transition and succession.

These entrepreneurial conditions and attitudes are examined in different regions of Nebraska to provide an in-depth understanding of the climate for entrepreneurship. The final chapter of the book describes actions that can be taken to maintain the state's dynamic and competitive economy to foster growth, job creation, and expanded wealth and philanthropy. This book's scope and comprehensive analysis can serve as a model for any state to use to advance its entrepreneurship.

About the Authors

Eric C. Thompson is an Associate Professor of Economics and the Director of the Bureau of Business Research in the College of Business Administration at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He has conducted dozens of studies on economic growth and development in Nebraska and is the author of numerous journal articles on economic growth and development in local and state economies.

William B. Walstad is John T. and Mable M. Hay Professor of Economics in the College of Business Administration at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He has written many research articles on entrepreneurship and is the coauthor of four books on entrepreneurship: The Entrepreneur in Youth (2007), The New Female Entrepreneur (2005), the "E" Generation (2000), and Seeds of Success (1999).

Praise for Entrepreneurship in Nebraska

"Entrepreneurs and small-business owners play a very important role in our continued economic growth as a state. Nebraska is home to many successful companies that began with the vision of a young entrepreneur and over time grew into a viable business. Finding ways to encourage that spirit of homegrown entrepreneurship is key to Nebraska's future success."

-- Dave Heineman, Governor, State of Nebraska

"Recruiting new business in Nebraska is extremely important, but the future of the state is Nebraska's entrepreneurial spirit. We must provide guidance and support to the citizens of Nebraska who will become the future business leaders of this state. Entrepreneurship means business, generating taxes for Nebraska, and employment opportunities of Nebraska's workers. Entrepreneurship is the gold standard of Nebraska"

-- Duane Acklie, Chairman, Crete Carrier Corporation

"Professors Thompson and Walstad's research and analysis provide valuable insights on how Nebraska can create a climate that encourages entrepreneurship -- which is key to the state's economic future."

-- James B. Milliken, President, University of Nebraska