Enhancing Entrepreneurial Leadership and Growth in Small Firms

Although small firms (less than 20 employees) are responsible for the creation of most new jobs, very few grow into larger firms. Most entrepreneurs/owner-managers lack the leadership and managerial skill necessary to grow their businesses. LEAD (Leading Enterprise & Development) and associated programmes have proved extremely effective in providing the leadership expertise necessary for entrepreneurs to facilitate the survival and growth of their small firms in the longer-term. The basis of the LEAD approach is that participating entrepreneurs are encouraged to become part of a learning community of practice. The community provides a safe space in which participants are encouraged to share knowledge and experiences. The emphasis is on individual entrepreneurs finding a leadership approach that works for them and their employees rather than imposing one best way to lead.