This text introduces the key characteristics of the small business sector. Looking at core business functions, it examines the specific problems that face the small business owner. It shows how the business environment for the smaller firm differs from that of larger companies, and studies how far their success or failure depends on the wider economic climate. It also looks at the different locations, whether urban or regional, and the effect of small businesses on the outside community. In addition, the book studies the internal organization of small companies, encompassing discussions of employment, entrepreneurship, management strategies, organizational cultures, finance and the variety of challenges the small business owner faces in each of these questions.