Determinants of small business performance in a selected region in South Africa : the role of entrepreneurial orientation and competitive advantage

Abstract

Background: Small businesses in South Africa are an important engine for economic growth. However, the failure rate amongst such businesses remains high. Purpose of study: There is an increasing need for research that explores how small business performs especially on the African continent noted to have a high failure rate of enterprises. The aim of the study was two-fold. Firstly, to ascertain the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and business performance. Secondly, the study sought to ascertain the mediating effect of competitive advantage on the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and performance. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study adopted a positivist approach utilising the quantitative methodology to survey a sample of 177 small business owners/managers. Results/Findings: The findings show the existence of a positive and significant relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and business performance. Further, the findings also show that competitive advantage mediates the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and business performance. Recommendations: Based on these findings, interventions are proposed that relate to how business performance can be improved within an African small business context. Managerial implication: In addressing the failure rate challenge faced by small businesses, the study encourages continued quests and interventions that promote competitive advantage and entrepreneurial capability development.