Growing America Through Entrepreneurship: Findings from the Evaluation of Project GATE

摘要

While many Americans dream about starting their own business and have the motivation to do so, lack of business expertise and access to credit often prevent them from realizing their dreams. Recognizing this untapped potential, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), Employment and Training Administration, teamed with the Small Business Administration (SBA) to create a demonstration projectProject GATE (Growing America Through Entrepreneurship)designed to help people create or expand their own business. Project GATE was implemented in seven sites in three states Minnesota, Pennsylvania, and Mainebetween fall 2003 and summer 2005. Almost anyone interested in starting or growing a small business was eligible to participate in Project GATE. Participants were offered an initial assessment of their business needs, classroom training, one-on-one business counseling, and assistance in applying for business financing. This report presents the findings from the evaluation and policy recommendations based on the evaluation results.