During 2010, 3.69 % of the adult population in Turkey was actively trying to start a business (nascent entrepreneurs). Although, Turkey has had lower than average start up rates (6.7%) for efficiency-driven countries, we experienced slightly higher start up entrepreneurial activity over 2008 (3.19%). The increased proportion of nascent entrepreneurs can be considered as an indicator for new business activity in the future, especially when global economic circumstances get better. When we compare Turkey’s start-up rates with other efficiency-driven economies, Turkey is in fifth-from-last position for start-up types of entrepreneurial activity. In fact, the start-up rate of Turkey is much lower than the average (6.7%). On the other hand, 5.05% of the adult population in Turkey were owner-managers of businesses from 3-42 months old (new businesses) in 2010. There is an increase in the share of young business owners relative to the adult population of 2010 compared with 2008 (3.01%). Turkey is in ninth position among the efficiency-driven countries. The increase in the prevalence of new business may reflect an improvement in economic growth. The ratio of new firms to start ups could also show the survival rates of starts ups. This ratio has been increased from 0.94 in 2008 to 1.36 in 2010, suggesting that in Turkey many businesses progress beyond the start-up phase. The survival and growth of new business might have a positive effect on overall economic development. Start-ups help to redress employment needs in the country.

An established business is where the owner/ manager has operated the business, has been paying wages and salaries or any other payment, for more than 42 months. The high rate of established business ownership shows positive circumstances for firm survival and also can be interpreted as an index for the general stability and sustainability of businesses (GEM, 2010, p. 36). The prevalence rate for established businesses for 2010 was 10.73%, a noticeable expansion over 2008 which recorded only 4.82%. This indicates that between 2010 and 2008, 5.91% of early stage entrepreneurs were transformed into established businesses. The survival rate of start-ups and growth of new business into established businesses in Turkey increased over 2008. This could show increasing stability and/or sustainability of business activities in Turkey, which is very important for creating and sustaining employment and economic well being.