Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Cooperative activities play a vital role in the development of small-scale industries by fostering collaboration, resource sharing, and skill development among entrepreneurs. This research explores the impact of cooperative activities on small-scale industrial development, focusing on how these activities can enhance productivity, innovation, and sustainability within the sector. Through a mixed-methods approach, including surveys, interviews, and case studies, the study examines the factors that contribute to the success of cooperative initiatives in small-scale industries. The findings highlight the benefits of cooperative activities in small-scale industrial development, such as increased access to markets, technology, and financial resources. By working together, entrepreneurs can overcome common challenges, such as limited capital, lack of technical knowledge, and market competition. Cooperation also enables small-scale industries to achieve economies of scale, improve production efficiency, and expand their customer base. Furthermore, cooperative activities facilitate knowledge and skills transfer among entrepreneurs, leading to continuous learning and capacity building within the sector. By sharing best practices, experiences, and expertise, small-scale industrialists can enhance their business operations and adapt to changing market demands. Collaborative partnerships also create opportunities for joint research and development, leading to product innovation and improved quality standards. The research identifies key success factors for effective cooperative activities in small-scale industrial development, including trust among participants, clear communication channels, equitable resource distribution, and shared decision-making processes. Establishing supportive legal frameworks and financial incentives is crucial for promoting cooperation and sustaining collaborative efforts in the long run. Additionally, building strong networks and partnerships with government agencies, industry associations, and financial institutions can help small-scale industries access new markets, technology, and funding opportunities. Overall, the study underscores the importance of cooperative activities in driving the growth and competitiveness of small-scale industries. By fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual support, entrepreneurs can overcome barriers to success and achieve sustainable development. Through continued research and policy support, cooperative initiatives can play a significant role in transforming small-scale industries into dynamic and resilient engines of economic growth.

Thesis Overview

1.0       INTRODUCTION

1.1       BACKGROUND OF STUDY

Business in Nigeria has been classified as small, medium or large. In both the developing and developed countries, the government is turning to small and medium scale industries as a means of solving problems. It is also a seed bed of innovations, inventions and employment generation/creation. Hence all the levels of government at different times have policies which promote the existence of small scale businesses in Nigeria. Small scale orientation is part of Nigerian history.  Historical fact shows that small and medium scale industries control the economy today. Findings by economists over the years shows that small firms and entrepreneurs plays a much important role in economic growth and development of our country in which our rural areas have participated from. Effect of cooperatives in development of small scale industries in Udi local government area of Enugu state cannot be overemphasized. Udi local government is one of the local governments that made up Enugu state which came into existence as a result of metamorphosis of the eastern region. Cooperative movement in Enugu state dates as far back as early 1960`s under the eastern regional council.

The study area is highly populated with different calibers of people with different social background, different languages, predominantly Igbo language. Cooperatives have immensely contributed to the development of small scale industries due to its positive contributions, many types of cooperative societies which includes all types of auxiliary cooperative societies were established which includes transport cooperatives, cooperative insurance productive cooperatives, agricultural cooperative and multipurpose cooperative societies.

1.2       STATEMENT OF PROBLEMS

Cooperative societies exist in many states, communities and nations as a whole. Cooperatives have really contributed to the development of small scale business in Nigeria though there are some problems which they encounter which have really impeded their speed and contributions. Some of these problems include lack of skilled and trained labour force, inadequate infrastructures, the impact of vicious circle of poverty etc. therefore government is turning to small and medium scale industries as a means of economic development and a sure means of solving the problem.

 In this research work, the researcher aims at identifying the factors that affects smooth running of small scale industries in udi local government area. It has been observed that despite government effort to see the unemployment problems solved in the country, their various programs to help citizens to be self reliance have failed. Cooperative now is the available and most appropriate option to solving this problem.