As described in the chapter, entrepreneurship is a global phenomenon. However, innovativeness varies from country to country, as does the infrastructure to support new business development.

These differences have substantial implications for both persons wishing to start new businesses, as well as for companies seeking local partners in different regions.

This exercise will acquaint you with the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM), an annual series of studies that evaluate entrepreneurial activity in different regions of the world. GEM is a collaborative initiative between the London Business School and Babson College. Working with experts in multiple countries, they produce a series of annual reviews of entrepreneurial activity, both at the country level and in a summary global report. Publications from the GEM Consortium are available online at http://www.gemconsortium.org. GEM started in 1999 with reports on 10 countries. By 2001 the scope had broadened to 29 countries. The 2007 reports will include 43 countries.

Working in teams, complete either Assignment A or Assignment B.

Assignment A

Compare entrepreneurial activities across countries. 

1. Pick two countries that are located in the same region of the world (i.e., the Americas, Europe, Asia-Pacific, or the Middle East).

2. Review the most recent GEM country reports for your two selections.

3. Prepare a brief PowerPoint presentation that identifies the similarities and differences between the two countries. Include the levels of entrepreneurial activity, infrastructure, and challenges/ problems facing both nations.

Assignment B

Compare entrepreneurial activities over time.

1. Select one country that was included in both the 2001 and the most recent GEM surveys.

2. Review the GEM reports for that country for both years.

3. Prepare a brief PowerPoint presentation that identifies the similarities and differences within the country over time. Include the levels of entrepreneurial activity, infrastructure, and challenges/ problems. Overall, is the climate for entrepreneurship improving or worsening?