Case Study: Desert Storm And The Entrepreneurial Spirit

Abstract

This case is appropriate for any college level entrepreneurial class.  The purpose of this case study is to explore the business experience of an Iraqi entrepreneur, and share it with the community of entrepreneurs worldwide. The paper traces the journey of Mr. Sammy Awad, the entrepreneur, from the 1991 Gulf war to the fall of Baghdad to Coalition Forces in 2003. The Gulf war caused widespread devastation to the Iraqi economy, and large scale unemployment. On the other hand, the war created lucrative market opportunities for entrepreneurs, including Mr. Awad who, in a few years time was capable of moving from being a conscript in the Iraqi armed forces with a trivial salary, to a taxicab driver, and finally to an owner of a fleet of taxicabs. His stamina, determination, and foresight make him a role model for young entrepreneurs around the world.