The goal of research within Nicaragua is to assess the needs of micro-, small- and medium-sized businesses for entrepreneurial education and enterprise development programs. This research includes the development of a longitudinal database of over 300 firms surveyed annually over each of the next five years. A pilot project on the overall research study began in 2010.
Based on the baseline data collected over the five year period, appropriate educational models will be identified that are culturally sensitive and effective. Over time, the objective is to study how entrepreneurial education and enterprise development improves the long-term welfare of individuals and communities.
The American Chamber of Commerce in Nicaragua (AmCham), the Association of Producers and Exporters in Nicaragua (APEN), Nicaraguan Institute of Development (INDE) and the Family Business Institute at the National University of Engineering (UNI) have offered to help provide access to businesses in their network to assist in data collection. Researchers and administrators in Nicaragua have also agreed to help with survey design, data collection and interpretation of findings. Wake Forest faculty have made multiple visits to Nicaragua for this project throughout the year.