Micro and small enterprises (MSEs) have been recognized as a major contemporary source of employment and income in a growing number of developing countries. Yet, relatively little is known about the characteristics and patterns of change in these enterprises. This volume examines the dynamics of MSEs in the development process. Drawing on a unique set of surveys conducted in twelve countries in Africa and Latin America the authors map the patterns of change in MSEs in the developing world.
Subjects covered include:
* significance of new start and closure rates of MSEs
* factors involved in expansion rates and growth patterns of MSEs
* the role of gender in MSEs evolution.

Carl Liedholm is Professor of Economics at Michigan State University. He has written widely in the field of economic development.,
Donald C. Mead is Professor of Agricultural Economics at Michigan State University. He has published widely on MSEs in developing countries.