The book distinguishes four types of new ventures: survival, lifestyle, managed growth and aggressive growth. Underlying characteristics of each type are investigated, together with the resources, skills and capabilities necessary for their success. Issues that arise based on this typology are explored, including reasons why ventures of one type rarely change to become another, and how entrepreneurs determine which they should pursue. In addition, the authors introduce the 'portfolio' concept, where the need to develop a balanced mix of venture types is emphasized.

The principal audiences for What Do Entrepreneurs Create?include entrepreneurship educators, scholarly researchers, public policy developers, economic development professionals, and community organizations striving to foster entrepreneurial activity.