Overcoming Network Resource Limitations for Innovation in Tunisian Hotels: A Study on the Role of Creativity

Abstract

This paper investigates the role of personal network resources in promoting innovation in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Innovation is a key driver of economic growth and competitiveness, and SMEs are widely recognized as important sources of innovation. However, SMEs often face resource constraints that limit their ability to innovate. Personal networks are one potential source of accessible and cost-effective resources that entrepreneurs can use to overcome these constraints. Using a sample of 94 Tunisian entrepreneurs, we estimated a structural equation model (SEM) to test the relationship between personal network resources, creativity, and innovation. Our study aimed to provide insights into the complex interplay between personal networks, creativity, and innovation in the context of SMEs. Contrary to expectations, our study did not find a significant effect of personal network resources on innovation. Additionally, creativity did not mediate the relationship between resources and innovation. These findings suggest that personal network resources may not be as important for promoting innovation in SMEs as previously thought. Despite the lack of significant results, our study makes important contributions to the literature on innovation in SMEs. In the full paper, we will discuss the implications of our findings in more detail and provide recommendations for future research.