Haitians have received help from governments, the private sector and the philanthropic community around the world to deal with the awful devastation, but the long term goal of rebuilding a nation and constructing institutions from scratch will require sustained commitment to the country. I can’t think of a better group to enlist in this task than Haitian entrepreneurs. The needs of the businesses affected in this region are extraordinary, but so is their potential to become agents for restoration.
Part of the efforts of the international community should be devoted to help entrepreneurs survive this crisis and help other businesses emerge through opportunities related to the rebuilding of the country. Improvements in the health, number, and size of businesses will generate job opportunities and add vitality to the economy.
What can entrepreneurs do in the midst of a crisis of this nature and magnitude? You might be thinking that entrepreneurship has no place in a society where there are only minimal traces of an economy, but the New York Times recently reported on entrepreneurs engaging in business transactions out a desire to return to normalcy in Léogâne, a city near the epicenter of the earthquake (see “Near Quake’s Epicenter, a City Ready for Business”). Anything from huts to haircuts to personal care products to meals are being offered in this city for a price. Entrepreneurs can do even more. Think of the construction contractors and the many service providers that will be needed to put donations to good use.
To read the full, original article click on this link: Policy Dialogue on Entrepreneurship | A Role for Entrepreneurs in Haiti
Author: Jonathan Ortmans
