Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book argues that small businesses were the net creators of more jobs than large firms, and ever since governments across the globe have been struggling to design, implement and evaluate policies that benefit the development of small firms. It explores the development of small business policy in countries with very different contexts and across five continents, plus it seeks to develop a deeper understanding regarding how small business policy has evolved in these countries and what one might learn from their experiences. The book offers a deeper understanding of how small business policy has evolved in various countries on different continents. It provides insights for policy-makers and researchers regarding how small business policy is designed, implemented and evaluated, and suggests lessons from which relevant stakeholders can learn.