Get Up and Go

Even with solid economy, startup activity strong in Texas

When economic conditions deteriorate, the pace of entrepreneurial activity quickens. The Kauffman Foundation, a treasure trove of entrepreneurship-related information, released its national study of entrepreneurial activity in 2008.

As the Dallas Morning News noted in its article this morning, Texas ranked 13th overall. Out of the 15 largest metropolitan areas (of which DFW is 4th and Houston 8th), the Metroplex tied for 7th place with San Francisco with 0.42% (420 entrepreneurs per 100,000 population), and the Houston area came in 9th with 0.34%. [Ed. Note: I read the stats differently than DMN.]

The national average was 0.32%, so DFW was significantly above average. That information can be interpreted different ways, and may actually indicate a bit stronger economic situation in H-town and its environs since job loss is a major catalyst for individuals to start their own ventures. .:.