The Impact of Bootstrapping on Entrepreneurial Growth in a Developing Country (Case of Cameroon)

Research in entrepreneurial finance generally assumes that growth-oriented ventures lacking internal funds have to attract external finance or alternatively have to keep their growth ambitions in check. An often ignored alternative is that entrepreneurs resort to financial bootstrapping, defined as more or less creative techniques to reduce the need for more external finance. This study seeks to explain the impact of bootstrapping on entrepreneurial growth. Specifically, the study sought to explain clearly what bootstrapping is, to assess the various bootstrapping techniques and finally to examine the role bootstrapping plays in the growth of entrepreneurs. Findings from literature
reveals that, in situation where the entrepreneur cannot write a business plan to attract external investors, bootstrapping seems to be the only source of finance for the business. Bootstrapping also reduces pressure on entrepreneurs and builds their confidence