DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/BBK4-WP15
Author ORCID Identifier
https://orcid.org/0009-0007-7356-1836
Defense Date
2025
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Department
Public Policy & Administration
First Advisor
Dr. Elsie Harper-Anderson
Second Advisor
Dr. Xueming Chen
Third Advisor
Dr. Leslie S. Stratton
Fourth Advisor
Dr. Wenli Yan
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic caused almost one-fifth of the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to fail during the height of the pandemic and had a particularly large impact on small firms. Schumpeter’s Creative Destruction theory predicts that a low level of entrepreneurship, particularly innovation and productivity, correlates with higher firm failure rates. Utilizing data from the World Bank Enterprise Survey, I test this prediction by taking firm-level data from 23 countries. The study explores how capacity gaps in entrepreneurship and productivity relative to competitors contribute to higher failure rates among small firms during crises. One unique contribution of this work is the creation of an entrepreneurship index based on various entrepreneurial activities identified by the OECD. Another unique contribution is the use of relative entrepreneurship and productivity measures that are industry specific. Findings suggest that small firms with below-average entrepreneurship and productivity levels face increased failure risks, whereas excessively high productivity levels do not confer advantages. The findings and policy implications presented in the final chapter offer guidance for policymakers, business owners, and business incubators in navigating crises and adopting appropriate strategies.
Rights
© The Author Rajendra Pandit
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
2-10-2025
Included in
Economic Policy Commons, Other Public Affairs, Public Policy and Public Administration Commons, Public Policy Commons