To start a business easily and quickly are special features of the U.S. economic system. In fact, one of the engines of economic growth is the employment and wages generated by new businesses. Business ownership is a freedom that has been woven into the American Dream.

Business Start-Up and Survival Rates[/gt_heading

Every year entrepreneurs take that leap and start their enterprises. SBA reports that there are about  28.8 million small business in the U.S. and they employee 56.8 million people. However, about two-thirds of businesses with employees survive at least two years, and about half survive at least five years (SBA Report).

Despite the challenges to survive, many enterprises weather political, technological and economic hurdles. How? I think one reason is the business owner’s ability to adapt to the winds of change.

Surviving Heritage Businesses

The team of a Chicago small business, SBA reports, published an infographic that identifies the oldest surviving businesses in each U.S. state.

Oldest Operational Business in the U.S.

The Shirley Plantation, founded in 1613, holds the distinguished honor of being the oldest surviving U.S. business. Today it continues as a working plantation, a private family home, a National Historic Landmark, and a Virginia Landmark. Shirley is a privately owned estate that is owned, operated, and resided in by direct descendants of the original founder, Edward Hill I.

Let’s honor those entrepreneurs who have set their roots in a community and have dedicated themselves to delivering services or goods.  I’m sure these entrepreneurs would tell us that it hasn’t been an easy road, but it is a fulfilling one. If you’re a business owner (or would be), I hope you embrace the desire to steer your business into the hall of legends.

 

Images via BusyBeaver.net