The article attempt to approximate the reader the essence and importance of leadership in small organizations and the role and impact of small business owner for its success. The problem of leadership in small organizations is a problem rarely tested, although the managers of these companies often provide their market advantage. Presented methodology and research tools that have been used in a study conducted by the National Agency for Enterprise Development. The aim of the study was to PARP among other things, providing expertise to work on the design of support for small and medium-sized businesses and the creation of the dedicated support instruments aimed at the development. The basis of the research was the determination of the key drivers of rapid growth and the barriers and obstacles to the development of the organization. This means that participating in the survey business owners was created opportunity to influence the shaping of the system-support for companies that contribute to the development of the Polish economy. The article brought closer to the reader the theory associated with the nature of leadership and the evolution of leadership theory. It raised issues of leadership in the context of the efficiency of the organization. Reference was made to the classic concept of leadership and charismatic leadership. After a detailed description of the methods and tools of research, they made their critical analysis, allowing us to formulate conclusions.