Now in its fifth edition, Understanding Enterprise has established itself as one of the most widely respected guides to the discipline, providing a refreshingly perceptive approach to understanding and applying theory. It offers a critical introduction to enterprise in its broadest context, with particular emphasis on its application to entrepreneurs and small business. Divided into three parts, the course examines traditional approaches, new perspectives on the subject, and the success-or otherwise-of government policy. Written by leading experts with a combined wealth of research, teaching and consulting experience, this textbook will be an essential companion for undergraduate and postgraduate students of enterprise and small business. Policy makers and practitioners will also benefit from this comprehensive guide.New to this Edition:- Extensively revised to take into account the latest thinking and research, with updated content and examples throughout- Updated coverage of the impact and failings of comparative government policies- Enhanced pedagogical features to engage students and enliven their learning experienceAccompanying online resources for this title can be found at bloomsburyonlineresources.com/understanding-enterprise. These resources are designed to support teaching and learning when using this textbook and are available at no extra cost.

PART I: THE EVOLUTION OF ENTERPRISE UNDERSTANDING 1. Introduction Understanding Enterprise 2. A Brief History of Enterprise Understanding 3. Enterprise and Entrepreneurship: Their Meanings and Variations 4. Enterprise and Entrepreneurship: Understanding Their Nature 5. Small Businesses: Their Characteristics and Variety 6. Small Businesses: Understanding their Dynamics 7. Social Enterprise and the Third Sector PART II: CHALLENGES TO THE TRADITIONAL VIEW 8. Rethinking Small Business 9. Rethinking Entrepreneurship 10. Enterprise and Life 11. Becoming an Entrepreneur 12. Running a Small Business 13. Social Capital and the Enterprise Mix PART III: ENTERPRISE POLICY AND GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION 14. Why Governments Intervene: The Aims of Enterprise Policy 15. Enterprise Policy: Approaches and Delivery Methods 16. Does the Policy Work? 17. What Might Work? 18. The Impact of Change.