Don't Give Them the Fish, Show Them How to Fish: Framework of Market-Driven Entrepreneurship in Thailand

Abstract

Abstract This paper proposes a conceptual model to enhance the success of rural entrepreneurs in post-crisis Thailand. We postulate that the government plays important roles in facilitating entrepreneurial start-ups and initial growth. However, the subsidy or intervention needs to be limited to encourage market competition. We suggest that Thai entrepreneurs who can perform entrepreneurial activities that match the market opportunities(market-driven entrepreneurs) better than competitors are likely to succeed, as opposed to those who rely merely on product-driven strategies. The overall success of entrepreneurial activities will eventually boost Thai economic growth. This conceptual model can be used to understand the complex role of the government and marketdriven entrepreneurs in sustaining rural entrepreneurial activities which eventually will lead to national economic growth. It also fills a void in the literature and can be extended to other countries with similar national conditions.