This study investigates the reconfiguration of the economical dynamics in the city of São João Nepomuceno, Minas Gerais, after the decline of its main industry. The research analyses the city s transition towards the sector of clothing manufacturing, exploring the strategies adopted by local entrepreneurs in three steps. Initially, the investigation focuses on the genesis of local entrepreneurialism, building the profile of the city s pioneer clothing manufacturers in light of classical sociological theory.Following these steps, the research examines the impact of the opening of the Brazilian economy, which demanded the articulation of a mediator agent - the political entrepreneur - to connect the local economy to larger markets. Finally, the study presents data on the job market evolution in the textile industry, highlighting the expressive participation of women in it, and discusses current challenges associated with the implementation of ESG certifications, necessary requirements to keep competitiveness in the current market.