Within CLERSÉ, Ollibo Arnaud Gouekou explored the challenges faced by small entrepreneurs in Côte d'Ivoire.
Ollibo Arnaud Gouekou, researcher at CLERSÉ (Université de Lille).
Thesis defended in 2025 at the doctoral school École doctorale Sciences économiques, sociales, de l'aménagement et du management (Lille ; 1992-....).
Referenced in the ABES/STAR network, this thesis meets the rigorous criteria of French higher education.
The Ivorian economy, rich in its diversity and dynamism, is marked by the presence of a large number of small entrepreneurs. These individuals, true pillars of the local economy, often face major challenges that jeopardize their survival. A recent study highlighted the alarming mortality rate of SMEs and micro-enterprises, revealing that 80% of them go bankrupt before reaching their five years of existence. This finding raises crucial questions about the modalities of acquiring cultural capital, a determining factor for the sustainability of these businesses. Indeed, cultural capital, which encompasses skills, know-how, and social networks, is essential for navigating the complex entrepreneurial landscape of Côte d'Ivoire.
Small entrepreneurs, often from disadvantaged backgrounds, generally have a low level of education, which limits their access to resources and business networks. For example, a young graduate from a local university may find it easier to connect with investors or access vocational training than someone who has not had the chance to pursue higher education. Yet, these entrepreneurs possess embedded cultural capital, which can be an asset in their entrepreneurial journey. This capital, although often underestimated, can translate into a deep understanding of local market needs, adaptability, and resilience in the face of challenges.
Three modalities of acquiring cultural capital have been identified: the community modality, the network modality, and the bifurcation modality. The community modality is often adopted by traditional small traders, who rely on their community of origin to develop their business. This model is based on strong social ties and a certain form of solidarity. For example, a fruit and vegetable seller may count on the support of their neighbors to sell their goods, thus creating a virtuous circle. However, this modality can also lead to a form of monopolization of activities within the community, where only a few individuals dominate the market, thereby limiting opportunities for other entrepreneurs.
The network modality, on the other hand, mainly concerns small online traders and artisans. These entrepreneurs use online sociability and technological skills to adapt to market needs. For example, a leather artisan can promote their products on social media, reaching a clientele well beyond their locality. They seek to diversify their sources of income by engaging in less demanding activities, such as online sales or creating partnerships with other artisans. This approach allows them not only to gain visibility but also to benefit from greater flexibility in their operations.
Finally, the bifurcation modality pertains to small processors of raw materials, who use their professional background and entrepreneurial ethos to innovate and seize new opportunities. For example, a farmer may decide to transform their products into jams or juices, thus creating added value and responding to a growing demand for local and natural products. This capacity to innovate is often the result of a blend of traditional know-how and new skills acquired over time.
This study raises questions about how policymakers can support these small entrepreneurs. How can they promote access to education and training to strengthen cultural capital? What public policies could be implemented to encourage the creation of mutual aid networks among entrepreneurs? For example, mentoring programs or training workshops could be established to help young entrepreneurs develop their skills and expand their network. The answer to these questions is crucial for improving the survival of SMEs and micro-enterprises in Côte d'Ivoire and, by extension, for energizing the local economy.
In conclusion, it is imperative to explore these modalities of acquiring cultural capital and to think about tailored solutions to support small entrepreneurs. The sustainability of these businesses depends not only on economic factors but also on the ability to mobilize cultural and social resources. By investing in the cultural capital of entrepreneurs, Côte d'Ivoire could not only reduce the mortality rate of SMEs but also foster a more inclusive and sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem, capable of withstanding economic fluctuations and contributing to the prosperity of the entire country.
Key Facts
- 80 % : of SMEs/very small enterprises go bankrupt before 5 years, illustrating the fragility of the sector.
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Sources and Access
Ollibo Arnaud Gouekou. Les petits entrepreneurs en Côte d'Ivoire : modalités d'acquisition du capital culturel incorporé. Sociologie. Université de Lille, 2025. Français. ⟨NNT : 2025ULILA014⟩. ⟨tel-05545046⟩