Factors and Structures of Migrant Entrepreneurship Clusters in Rural Areas: Case Study on Fukusumi District of Tambasasayama City

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the factors and structures of migrant entrepreneurship clusters and migration in Fukusumi district in Tambasasayama City, Hyogo Prefecture. Currently, an increasing number of people living in urban areas are interested in moving to rural areas. A lot of research has been conducted on entrepreneurship and settlement in these places. However, most of the studies are based on the large-scale industry accumulation and development. Additionally, not many studies have been conducted on comparatively small entrepreneurship in rural areas. Thus, this study investigates the case of Fukusumi, where many rural entrepreneurial activities take place. In addition, Fukusumi has one of the leading rural entrepreneurial clusters. Interview surveys were conducted in order to clarify the structure of ecosystem in Fukusumi. It was found that the people connection network is constructed, encouraging the matching of resources with migrant entrepreneurs.