Micro credit and territory: Portugal as a case study

Abstract

This paper studies the relations between micro credit and territory, assuming that micro credit is an important instrument for fighting against poverty and social exclusion. Based on a micro-level database provided by ANDC (Associação Nacional de Direito ao Crédito), a statistical and econometric study has been undertaken in order to identify the territorial idiosyncrasies associated with the employment of micro credit in Portugal. Focusing on the survival of micro credit projects during the period 2006-2009, our study demonstrates the significance for a firm’s survival of variables such as population density, value added growth in each activity and promoters’ qualifications, as well as two regional dummies.