By Timothy Collins, IIRA Assistant Director, Western Illinois University, August 19, 2010
Newswise — Studies of entrepreneurship in rural areas increasingly stress the importance of a supportive community environment and social networks in enhancing innovation, according to a recent Rural Research Report from the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs. According to the report's author, Greg Wise, professor and community development specialist and director for the Center for Community and Economic Development at the University of Wisconsin–Extension, the most important factors in developing a culture for entrepreneurship include: building and supporting business skills among entrepreneurs; developing vital resource centers; creating community awareness of and support for entrepreneurs; and building networks and collaboration.