ABSTRACT. Entrepreneurship requires a supportive institutional environment to flourish. Using qualitative methodology, this research explored how in just 8 years, one city, Barranquilla, Colombia, dramatically changed the ethical climate of the city, creating an attractive environment for business growth and entrepreneurship. The model that emerged from the meta-themes offers a description of how BAQ redeemed its civil society from corruption. It includes the following constructs: Restoring Confidence, New Leadership, Professionalizing of Staff, Quick Wins, Financial Recovery, Expanded Partnerships, and Developmental Strategies. pp. 62–83

Keywords: corruption; economic development; entrepreneurship; civic leadership

JEL codes: D73; F63; L26