ACHOJA F.O.
Abstract
The aim of this study was to analyze the infl uence of the environment on survival and development/growth of small scale
agribusiness entrepreneurs, and their need for appropriate strategies. Sixty small-scale agribusiness entrepreneurs were randomly
selected from the three agro ecological zones in Delta State and studied. Questionnaire/interview techniques were used
to collect primary data. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. The results of the study revealed that the fi nancial
environment exercised dominant infl uence on the growth and survival of small-scale agribusiness enterprises in the study
area. Further analysis revealed that the farm – fi rms growth was labour intensive, whereas inadequate capital was a major
constraint to the growth and survival of small-scale agribusiness enterprises in the study area. Respondents perceived that if
they adopt the following survival strategies viz; objectivity, prioritization, record keeping and adequate fi nancial reserves,
they would perform well and their business could grow and survive. Improvement in the infrastructures (e.g. electricity and
communication facilities), and accessibility to cheap credit facilities would create favourable environment and incentive for
successful entrepreneurship in Delta State, Nigeria.
Key words:
growth, survival, small scale agribusiness, environment, strategy