An important component of “asset-based community development” (ABCD) focuses on uncovering hidden talents and skills that exist among individuals who could, with proper guidance and nurturing, be directed into some type of entrepreneurial activity. The “capacity inventory of individuals” is a simple tool developed by Kretzmann and McKnight (1993) that can help locate people in the community who are dreaming of starting their own business. Also, it can identify existing business owners who are struggling in their capacity to keep their businesses alive. Central to the “inventory tool,” however, is information gathered on the type of assistance that potential and current entrepreneurs believe they need to strengthen the economic viability of their businesses. In many instances, these are support activities that can be provided by people, organizations, or institutions already located in the community.
A version of the “capacity inventory of individuals” tool (especially Part III) can be found at:
http://srdc.msstate.edu/publications/227/227_capacity_inventory.pdf.
