Taxation and economic rent have to be mentioned: Why should I take the risk of self-employment and employing others, if 'Der Staat' (the state) discourages me by too much 'law and order' frameworks and favors non-risk takers by all kinds of 'paternal alimentation'. Running a business should be made simple, business failure should not be punished and special economic start-up programs shall help entrepreneurial people 'to do their thing', e.g. the younger generation. In any case, 'market entry' is difficult enough for anybody trying it and a prudent state can ease that initial pains of walking on your own feet.
Its governments actions, passing laws for example that might be detrimental to business. The UK Labour government of the 1970s did this causing increased economic problems. Union activity. Corrupt elite creating a failure of confidence in the ability of businesses to develop.
A boost: clear signs of economic energy and confidence such as new, emblematic buildings being built. Higher political profile. Laws encouraging investment.
Taxation and economic rent have to be mentioned: Why should I take the risk of self-employment and employing others, if 'Der Staat' (the state) discourages me by too much 'law and order' frameworks and favors non-risk takers by all kinds of 'paternal alimentation'. Running a business should be made simple, business failure should not be punished and special economic start-up programs shall help entrepreneurial people 'to do their thing', e.g. the younger generation. In any case, 'market entry' is difficult enough for anybody trying it and a prudent state can ease that initial pains of walking on your own feet.
Stephen's conception of better entry for entrepreneurs is sound-with proper policies for failure (many new businesses fail)-and renewal of failed businesses. A concentration by business courses on ways of entry and those areas worth entering-internet, service (in UK) and still aspects of retail. But here, there must be more and better ones!