This study examines the effects of entrepreneurship through qualitative case study methods. It examines the life and work of a single small-business entrepreneur in Tupelo, MS to discern how she affects her community both economically and non-economically. Results from the interviews, observations, and document analysis reveal the entrepreneur, an African American hairbraider, role-models entrepreneurship to others, creates new opportunities and expands markets, and creates social change. For the African American community in particular, these effects are significant. The results also demonstrate how for-profit entrepreneurs can use their businesses to achieve social goals.

Suggested citation: Carpenter, D. M. (2011). The power of one entrepreneur: A case study of the effects of entrepreneurship. Southern Journal of Entrepreneurship, 4(1), 19-35.

Click here to read the full article. Permission to republish the article was kindly granted by the American Journal of Entrepreneurship (formerly the Southern Journal of Entrepreneurship).