Mobile Entrepreneurship around the World

Entrepreneurship is crucial for economic development around the world. In places such as Nigeria, Egypt, and Indonesia, micro-entrepreneurs generate 38 percent of the gross domestic product. Data studies show that small businesses create a disproportionate share of new jobs, generating innovative ideas, business models, and methods for selling goods and services.

Mobile devices are invaluable tools for entrepreneurs to overcome the challenges of doing business. They help people communicate with one another, access market information, sell products across geographic areas, reach new consumers, access mobile payment systems, and empower women and the disadvantaged.

On October 23, the Center for Technology Innovation at Brookings hosted a discussion on how mobile entrepreneurship improves the opportunities for social and economic development around the world. Moderated by Vice President Darrell West, a panel of experts examined innovative examples of mobile entrepreneurship and its impact on business income, how mobile technology can boost overall development, and how to overcome barriers to mobile entrepreneurship. Darrell West also released a paper on the topic at the event.

After the program, speakers took audience questions.