July 12, 2025
CLEVELAND, Ga. — A new research study conducted by faculty and students at Truett McConnell University sheds light on how faith and entrepreneurship are transforming lives and communities in the barrios of Nicaragua. The study, led by Dr. Kimberly Maiocco, Dean of the College of Professional Studies and Chair of the Hans Hut School of Business, reveals the resilience of microbusiness owners, many of whom are women and heads of households, and how their faith in God shapes their business practices, fuels community development, and fosters hope in challenging environments.
Drawing from in-depth focus groups, the research explores how Nicaraguan microentrepreneurs, despite facing limited access to capital, high competition, and economic isolation, are creating sustainable businesses rooted in Christian values and community relationships. A recurring theme throughout the study is the pivotal role of local churches, not just as places of worship, but as centers of mentorship, prayer, and economic resilience.
“Our participants didn’t frame their situation in terms of poverty,” said Dr. Kimberly Maiocco, “they naturally exhibited a solutions based and growth mindset, and spoke of glorifying God through their businesses and of building a better future for their families and neighbors.”
The study highlights four key themes:
Necessity and Motivation: Microbusinesses are often started out of economic necessity, yet owners see their work as a divine calling.
Isolation and Imitation: Market isolation leads to a reliance on imitating others, yet participants are hungry for training in innovation and customer service.
Community and Church Ties: Family and church networks not only support these businesses but also serve as powerful platforms for spiritual and social transformation.
Vision for the Future: Despite challenges, microentrepreneurs maintain a forward-looking hope—seeing their work as a testimony of God’s provision and a catalyst for local renewal.
Subject 17, a pastor and shop owner, summarized this connection beautifully: “My business glorifies God. I have to be an example for the church and for men... I can prove God’s faithfulness with my business.”
The research calls for greater support from Christian development agencies, such as Chosen Children’s Ministries, headquartered in South Carolina, whose mission “is a 24/7, planned with purpose, 365 days a year ministry that is laying the building blocks of the Kingdom in Nicaragua heart by heart while sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ.” Maiocco and her husband Chris have been leading trips through CCM since 2010.
Dr. Jordan Turner, a TMU alumnus and current lecturer in the School of Business states, “I saw firsthand the important work of equipping microentrepreneurs with business training, the blessings of access to capital, and the value of cross-cultural mentorship.”
This type of support can multiply the impact of these faith-driven ventures far beyond the barrio. The university encourages collaboration with churches, Christian colleges, and mission organizations to bring business discipleship into global development work ensuring microentrepreneurs are not only surviving but thriving in the name of Christ.
A team of faculty and students will continue the research in January 2026 and tax-deductible support can be provided through the Standing on Truth Fund - Dr. Charles F. Stanley Global Impact Center.
