Nearly half of respondents report bartering for goods and services, highlighting a robust informal economy that overlaps with the formal sector. Only one in ten knows where to find help to start or grow a business.
The survey suggests a mismatch between available institutional support and community needs, with many residents relying on informal networks for economic resilience. Policy recommendations call for recognizing and supporting existing informal entrepreneurs.
Why do two-thirds of residents aspire to self-employment, yet so few ever launch a business?
Does supporting the informal economy risk encouraging tax avoidance and unfair competition?
Could bringing 'off-the-books' businesses into the formal system destroy the community trust they are built on?
What can San Antonio's economy learn from the massive informal markets of Africa and Asia?
With new SBA loan restrictions, how will immigrant entrepreneurs in San Antonio adapt to survive?