Strategies Small Business Owners in Saint Croix Used to Prepare for and Recover from Hurricane Maria
Date of Conferral
2023
Degree
Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)
School
Business Administration
Advisor
Marilyn Simon
Abstract
In the aftermath of a natural disaster, small business owners often struggle with property damage, financial losses, disrupted operations, limited resource access, and a challenging recovery process. Grounded in the theory of planned behavior, the purpose of this qualitative multiple case study was to explore risk management strategies that six small business owners in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Saint Croix, used to prepare for and recover from the disastrous Hurricane Maria. Data were collected using semistructured interviews and reviewing public and participant-supplied documents, and they were analyzed following Yin’s 5-step process. Four themes emerged: disaster recovery, belief and disaster preparedness, recovery and financial preparedness, and experience and government aid. Key recommendations are for businesses to develop a comprehensive emergency plan, secure vital resources, and provide disaster safety and business continuity training to employees. The implications for positive social change include the potential for small business owners to address the threats associated with natural disasters proactively, retain employment, and maintain a positive economic effect on their community and society.
Recommended Citation
Scott, Dominique, "Strategies Small Business Owners in Saint Croix Used to Prepare for and Recover from Hurricane Maria" (2023). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 14907.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/14907
