Rural businesses employ 40,000 people in the South Lakes.
The Country Land and Business Association has published a report into the impact of the rural economy, which is worth £1.6billion locally.
It highlights the importance small businesses play in the region - 87% of countryside ventures take on fewer than ten people at a time.
Responding to the report, South Lakes MP Tim Farron praised the "entrepreneurial atmosphere" in Westmorland and Lonsdale.
Mr. Farron said: “It will come as no surprise to local people to hear about the impact made by small rural businesses to our local economy. The South Lakes has a vibrant entrepreneurial atmosphere, which benefits the local economy and provides jobs and apprenticeships.
“However, rural businesses face a difficult time ahead as the continued closure of roads and bridges will have an impact on the tourist economy. I will continue to fight for a temporary solution to be found to enable the crucial A591 route to be reopened before the end of May.
“There also remains work to be done to ensure that rural businesses have access to decent broadband, to enable them to connect to consumers and markets.”