INTERNET RESOURCES FOR APPAREL ENTREPRENEURSHIP BY SMALL AND MEDIUM SCALE ENTERPRISES IN AKWA IBOM STATE

Abstract

The study determined the internet resources for apparel entrepreneurship among small and medium scale enterprises in Akwa Ibom State. Three specific objectiveswere stated,and three research questions were raised to guide the study. Survey research design was adopted for the study. The population of the study comprised 151 registered small and medium scale entrepreneurs of apparel inUyo Senatorial District, Akwa Ibom State. The sample size of 120was drawn from the population through simplerandom sampling technique. A researcher-developed instrument titled“Internet Resources for Apparel Entrepreneurship Questionnaire (IRAEQ)” was used to collect data for the study. Mean and chi-square statistics were used for data analysis. Findings of the study revealed that internet resources such as Facebook, Google, TikTok, Instagram, UseNet, Appstore, WhatsApp, YouTube, Podcast, Business Blogs, Startup app are appropriate for apparel. Also, internet resources help in communication, advertisement, information, marketing, styles and designs on apparel entrepreneurship.Some small and medium scaleentrepreneurs could not access information on apparel businesses due to lack of digital skills and facilities. There is a significant influence of utilizing internet resources for apparel entrepreneurship.The researchers recommend among others that small and medium enterprises should be well fundedby government for the procurement of internet facilities.