Entrepreneurship and Industrialization for Rural Development: Business Incubation Approach

Abstract

The role of business incubators and the impact of their incubation programs have limited realization in nurturing entrepreneurship and industrialization. To foster rural development in developing areas whose population depends on agriculture requires a sustainable model which can nurture firms in the sector. This qualitative case study used ten selected business incubators that support firms in the agriculture sector to analyze how rural development can be fostered. Triangulate sampling and data collection were used, and interpretative analysis shows that most incubators are in-house, operated by the Government in the manufacturing sector. The leading roles played by incubators include providing managerial advice, accessible finance and facilities, and business advice, facilitating the export of vegetables and fruits, linkage and networking, and accessible markets. Business incubators in the agriculture sector play a significant role in nurturing start-ups, creating job opportunities, and positively impacting the economy. Therefore, it is crucial for developing countries like Tanzania to include business incubators in their policies and strategic plans.