Surviving COVID-19: Resiliency and Entrepreneurial Success in Africa

Abstract

The purpose of this panel discussion is to consider how entrepreneurs in developing economies survive during extreme adversity such as the COVID-19 pandemic. To achieve this goal, we will first consider the existing literature on entrepreneurial resilience, particularly that on its antecedents and consequences. In this context, we will argue that the effects of entrepreneurial resilience are particularly far-reaching in developing economies where a supply of entrepreneurs who constantly renew themselves to overcome adversity is urgently needed. Entrepreneurs in these economies are often faced with political corruption, persistent economic instability, societal turmoil, and other serious and chronic conditions. The COVID-19 pandemic and related conditions, including the relative scarcity of vaccinations and lack of government support, have exacerbated adversity in Africa. Thus, in addition to prior literature, we will use the findings from a new study on entrepreneurial resilience during COVID-19 to inform our discussion. This longitudinal study was conducted in Ghana and South Africa by four of the panelists, two of whom live in the countries in which the data were collected. Through our discussion and contributions from the audience we hope to advance theories of entrepreneurial resilience and offer practical suggestions for fostering effective entrepreneurship during extraordinary adversity.