The New Generation of Entrepreneurs

Life has its share of both stormy and sunny moments. There are clouds (your car broke down) and then there are silver linings (but at least it's a nice day for a walk). While most of us would classify the recession as the mother of all clouds, it, too, has a silver lining. The current recession has sparked a big upswing in entrepreneurial pursuits, with small businesses are cropping up around the country.

According to a recent study by the Kauffman Foundation, "Rather than making history for its deep recession and record unemployment, 2009 might instead be remembered as the year business start-ups reached their highest level in 14 years -- even exceeding the number of start-ups during the peak 1999-2000 technology boom." Although the highest spike in start-up rates was among people ages 35-44, the entrepreneurial bug hasn't only bitten those established in their careers. Many young people are also opting to own their own businesses as an alternative to finding a full-time, entry-level job.