The Changing Nature of Entrepreneurship in the United States

Evidence from Shopify

Lisa Abraham, Gabriel W. Hassler, Benjamin K. Master, Brian Phillips

Published Jul 31, 2024

This paper uses data from Shopify to provide insight into the growing space of entrepreneurs using online platforms in the United States. Both Black and female entrepreneurs are overrepresented on the Shopify platform, and a sizable share of businesses experience initial growth. Minority owners report valuing supports associated with the platform more than nonminority owners, but also face more challenges, particularly around financing.

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RAND Style Manual
Abraham, Lisa, Gabriel W. Hassler, Benjamin K. Master, and Brian Phillips, The Changing Nature of Entrepreneurship in the United States: Evidence from Shopify, RAND Corporation, WR-A3370-1, 2024. As of September 20, 2024: https://www.rand.org/pubs/working_papers/WRA3370-1.html
Chicago Manual of Style
Abraham, Lisa, Gabriel W. Hassler, Benjamin K. Master, and Brian Phillips, The Changing Nature of Entrepreneurship in the United States: Evidence from Shopify. Santa Monica, CA: RAND Corporation, 2024. https://www.rand.org/pubs/working_papers/WRA3370-1.html.
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The research described in this report was funded by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and conducted by the RAND Lowy Family Middle-Class Pathways Center within RAND Education and Labor.

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