Household and Small Business Data
The data below reflect diverse perspectives and offer detailed information about the economic and social circumstances of the households and small business owners referenced. The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and Robert Townsend have taken the lead on further data collection efforts.
The surveys ask questions about access to credit, household and business finances, and small business development, making them an important community development tool. We encourage you to use these survey instruments to gather data on community development issues in other neighborhoods.
The small business data sets describe how small businesses were established and the roles they play within their communities. Information is also available about the extent to which households and small business owners rely on ethnic and family networks. Other topics covered in the surveys include potential concerns of business owners, such as future expansion, resource availability, financial constraints and setbacks. On the household side, the data provide insight into individuals' use of credit to finance investment, acquire housing, cover unexpected expenses and cope with financial setbacks.