Abstract:

In this study, the entrepreneurial experiences of the Syrians living in Kilis, the entrepreneurship process and its spatial reflections are discussed. The main purpose of the study is to discuss the spatial and sectoral distribution of ethnic entrepreneurship established by Syrians living in Kilis, the dynamics and processes that are effective in the development of this system. In this context, the spatial and sectoral distribution of ethnic businesses in Kilis, as well as the entrepreneurial experiences of Syrians and the factors that lead them to entrepreneurship, entrepreneurship strategies, source of capital, social relations networks, problems experienced and future strategies are revealed. In the study, in order to reveal the development process of ethnic entrepreneurship, 10 Syrian male entrepreneurs operating in the city of Kilis were interviewed. The participants were selected from different sector representatives and the questions in the interview form were asked to these people. In the process of determining the participant group, non-probabilistic (random) sampling techniques were used. In addition, field studies were carried out to reveal the distribution pattern of ethnic enterprises in the urban space, and these enterprises were localized on a sectoral basis. Localization and mappings were prepared using ArcGIS 10.3 software. This study has shown that ethnic businesses are not clustered in certain areas of the city. This situation has resulted in competition between ethnic businesses and local businesses. It is possible to come across these examples on Murtaza and Kanalboyu Streets. The businesses here employ almost entirely Syrian employees.

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