Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Small Businesses, Rural Producer Enterprises and Potential Entrepreneurs in the Ribeirão Preto Region, Brazil

Objective: This article aims to identify impacts of the economic crisis caused by the covid-19 pandemic on small business, in addition to rural producers and potential entrepreneurs in the Ribeirão Preto region. Theoretical Framework: The small-firm employments stand out for their ability to create jobs, generate income, reduce social inequality, in addition to stimulating regional and local development. Their relevance and the high mortality rates of small-firm employments the factors that contribute to the mortality or survival of these companies has been the subject of studies for decades. Method: Through a survey of 550 entrepreneurs, it was possible to understand their perception of possible impacts. Considering the fears reported by the entrepreneurs and the consequences due to the pandemic, the research sought to identify what measures were taken by the entrepreneurs to face these problems. Results and Discussion: Through the results found, it was possible to conclude that these companies already have these problems consolidated since their implementation and they are less able to resist to the economic impacts of the crisis, however, their strongly entrepreneurial character many of these companies have demonstrated resilience and capacity of innovation. Research Implications: This work contributes to demonstrating that in the crisis scenario imposed by the covid-19 pandemic it was essential to monitor these businesspeople so that they could have access to resources and means to resolve risks and face this period of difficulties. Originality/Value: Despite the difficulties the research shows that the strongly entrepreneurial nature means that many of these companies, even in a period of extreme difficulty, are still able to identify opportunities, leveraging their businesses and demonstrating resilience and capacity for innovation.