Growth Of Small And Medium-sized Enterprises Research Articles

Comparable yet distinct: a systematic review of social and small and medium-sized enterprises growth trajectories

Purpose This study aims to expand the concept of business growth by incorporating sustainability demands, particularly in the context of the Anthropocene era. It explores the growth trajectories of social enterprises (SEs) and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), examining how SEs integrate social and environmental objectives into their growth process. Through a systematic literature review (SLR), this study compares these approaches with traditional SME growth paradigms, highlighting the need for a holistic understanding of business growth that addresses contemporary socioenvironmental challenges. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative SLR was conducted, using a structured search algorithm to identify and evaluate research on growth and scaling in SMEs and SEs. The search of the Web of Science database with specific growth-related keywords yielded 5,362 articles, which were narrowed to 194 after filtering by journal relevance. Content analysis, guided by an inductively developed codebook, examined growth definitions, operationalizations, and methodologies. This paper focused on key growth dimensions (economic, social and environmental) and identified whether growth was addressed as an outcome or process, along with its enablers and barriers. Findings While there are areas of intersection between the literatures, the findings reveal that traditional SME growth frameworks do not entirely align with SEs growth conception and management. Furthermore, SE’s growth barriers and facilitators, as well as growth trajectories more broadly, emerge as distinct from those of traditional SMEs. The results distill insights from SE growth paths that can be valuable for traditional SME managers, particularly in terms of managing stakeholders and the institutional environment. Social entrepreneurs commonly use strategies for reshaping business norms, influencing consumer culture and raising social issues awareness, leveraging the values of stakeholders to secure essential support. Originality/value As SMEs confront escalating pressure to align with the sustainable development agenda, the findings underscore the critical significance of drawing insights from the burgeoning SE growth literature. This suggests that traditional SME growth literature stands to gain invaluable insights from recent SE research, fostering a more nuanced comprehension of sustainability-centric SME growth trajectories.

Implementing data-driven financial management systems in SMEs: A case review approach

The adoption of data-driven financial management systems has become increasingly vital for the growth and sustainability of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This review explores the implementation of such systems through a case review approach, analyzing their impact on financial decision-making, operational efficiency, and overall business performance. SMEs often face challenges in managing their financial processes due to limited resources, inefficient manual methods, and a lack of real-time data insights. Data-driven financial systems, leveraging automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and analytics, offer a solution by streamlining these processes, enhancing accuracy, and improving decision-making. The review examines three SMEs from different sectors manufacturing, retail, and services that have implemented data-driven financial systems. Through qualitative interviews, financial data analysis, and performance assessments before and after system implementation, the research identifies key improvements in cash flow management, profitability, and financial reporting. Each case highlights how automation and real-time data access have led to more strategic financial decisions, reduced costs, and operational efficiency. The findings suggest that data-driven financial systems not only increase financial transparency but also provide a competitive advantage by enabling SMEs to make informed decisions quickly. However, the review also identifies barriers to implementation, such as technical expertise, costs, and employee training, emphasizing the need for tailored solutions based on company size and sector. The review concludes by discussing future trends in financial technology adoption among SMEs and offers recommendations for facilitating successful integration. This research contributes to the understanding of how data-driven financial management can drive sustainable growth in SMEs. Keywords: Data-Driven, Financial Management, SMEs, Review.

Predictive analytics, operational efficiency, and revenue growth in SMEs in Africa

Predictive analytics (PA) is used for a variety of objectives, including optimisation, planning, strategy development, and resource management, all to improve performance. PA also helps organisations and customers communicate more effectively. Managers may increase customer satisfaction by integrating data on consumer preferences and experiences. Despite increased interest in PA technologies, there is still a considerable study gap in understanding its influence on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operational efficiency and revenue growth in Sub-Saharan Africa. Hence, the survival of SMEs as key drivers of economic growth and development in Sub-Saharan necessitated this study. The study investigates the influence of predictive analytics on operational efficiency and revenue growth of SMEs in Accra, Ghana, and Lagos, Nigeria. Acknowledging both cities as main commercial centres in their respective nations Using a cross-sectional and survey research approaches, the study sent 150 copies of questionnaire to SMEs in each of the cities using purposive sampling techniques, therefore guaranteeing a focus on key economic centres. Under the guidance of four research assistants in each city monitoring distribution and collection, data were gathered online over two months. The results showed that predictive analytics has positive and significant effect on both operational efficiency and revenues growth of SMEs. The study recommended that SMEs should give training to their staff top priority as well as build the required infrastructure to make the best use of predictive analytics. This entails not just purchasing cutting-edge analytics tools and technology but also making sure staff members have the ability to understand and act upon data-driven insights. Building a solid basis in predictive analytics can help SMEs better use data to maximise operations, foresee trends, and make wise strategic choices, thereby promoting higher efficiency and income development

The Impact of Tax Incentives on the Growth of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises: A Comparative Study Based on Industry

Tax incentive policies have been widely used as a crucial tool to promote the development of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), but their effectiveness varies across different industries and policy types. This study utilizes a comprehensive panel dataset from 2015 to 2023 to investigate the impact of Value-Added Tax (VAT) and income tax incentives on the growth of SMEs in China. Through fixed effects model analysis, we find that both VAT and income tax incentives significantly enhance SMEs' sales revenue and total asset growth. However, the magnitude of these effects differs substantially across industries, with high-tech and information technology service industries benefiting the most. Our industry comparison analysis reveals that the effectiveness of tax incentives is closely related to industry-specific characteristics, such as research and development (R&D) intensity and capital requirements. These findings provide key empirical evidence for optimizing SME tax policies and suggest that a more nuanced, industry-specific approach to tax incentives is needed. This study not only contributes to the literature on SME growth and tax policy effectiveness but also offers important insights for policymakers to refine SME support systems in the context of rapid technological change and economic transformation.

Management as a Factor of Socio-Economic Development of Small and Medium-Sized Businesses of Ukraine in Conditions of Instability

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ukraine are increasingly challenged by ongoing economic instability, characterized by currency volatility, inflationary pressures, and uncertain political dynamics. This paper explores the role of management in the socio-economic development of small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) under conditions of instability. Time series from 2001 to 2023 is analyzed for Ukraine. ADF and PP unit root test shows that data is stationery at first difference. ARDL bound test shows that time series data is cointegrated. Long-run estimates of ARDL technique show that management practices, socioeconomic development, research & development, technology adoption and employee skill & training have significantly positive relationship with SMEs growth rate, whereas, economic instability decrease the SMEs growth rate in Ukraine during studied time. Government of Ukraine should reform and bring new policies in all sectors especially manufacturing and production sector. Digitalization of the economy is foremost requirement of the Ukraine.

Is formalisation Enough to Achieve Growth in SMEs?

The objective of this research is to determine whether the formalisation (FORM) of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) has an impact on the growth, and determine which aspects of SMEs management, when formalised, are associated with and contribute to the growth of these organisations. A survey was applied to 403 proxies of SMEs in Lima, Peru. A structural equation model was used to validate the hypotheses. The results indicate that there is a positive and significant association between the FORM of SMEs management and the growth of these organisations. The main finding of this research is to determine that the formalisation of SME management in Lima, Peru explains their growth by only 27%, leaving 63% explained by other factors that could be not only management aspects, but also aspects of the SME environment. State institutions, companies and academia should analyse the low economic contribution of SMEs from a broader approach and not only from the position that formalisation is the only reason for growth. Other aspects should be studied, such as education in management issues by entrepreneurs, development of collaborators' competencies, improvement in the efficiency in the management of State institutions, among other factors; and thus, find the appropriate mechanisms that contribute to the growth of SMEs. This research is the first to analyse, in a single study, whether the formalisation aspects of SMEs management contribute to their growth. Finally, this research has contributed to the construction and conceptualisation of the SME growth variable.

The Role of Commercial Bank Loans in Enhancing Financial Performance of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania

Purpose: This study investigates the role of commercial bank loans on the performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania. It examines how commercial bank loans affect SME financial performance, providing a comprehensive understanding of how financial support from banks influences SME growth and sustainability. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study adopted a quantitative approach. It utilized cross-section data collected from a sample of 92 SMEs in Morogoro municipality. The collected data were descriptively analyzed using SPSS version 25. This analysis aimed to evaluate loan accessibility, determinants of loan choice, and the effect of commercial bank loans on key financial metrics such as profitability, cash flow management, and business growth. Findings: The study reveals that although many SMEs perceive commercial bank loans as easily accessible, others encounter significant barriers, including high interest rates and stringent collateral requirements. The study also reveals that commercial bank loans have mixed effects on SME performance. While they positively impact revenue generation and asset growth, their effects on profitability and business expansion are inconsistent. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the existing literature by providing nuanced insights into the role of commercial bank loans in SME performance within a Tanzanian context. It highlights the challenges SMEs face in accessing financial support and the varying impact of bank loans on their financial outcomes. The study findings are relevant for both policymakers and financial institutions aiming to improve loan accessibility and support SME development. Policy Implications: The study suggests several policy implications, including the need for banks to simplify loan application processes, offer more flexible loan products and address high interest rates that hinder SMEs access to finance. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships between SMEs and financial institutions and leveraging financial advisory services to enhance loan utilization and overall business performance.

Organizational Trade Secrets and Organisational Performance: Leveraging Technical Information for Competitive Edge in Small Scale Businesses

This study examines the impact of organizational trade secrets and organizational performance, focusing on technical information management practices and competitive edge as sub-variables in measuring the performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria. Utilizing a descriptive survey research design, data were collected from 108 SMEs using structured questionnaires. The analysis, conducted through SPSS software, includes descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analyses to assess the relationship between technical information management practices and competitive edge. Findings reveal that robust cybersecurity measures, the use of Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs), and regular employee training on intellectual property are the most prevalent and influential practices. These practices significantly correlate with improved financial results, market share, customer satisfaction, and innovation rates. The regression analysis confirms that technical information management practices collectively explain a substantial portion of the variance in organizational performance. The study underscores the importance of strategic technical information management for enhancing the competitive edge and achieving sustainable growth in SMEs. Recommendations include enhancing cybersecurity measures, enforcing NDAs, conducting regular employee training, documenting technical information, seeking legal advice on intellectual property, and regularly evaluating management practices to ensure they contribute effectively to organizational performance

Nice to value. Unraveling the nexus between management accounting use and financial performance: A quantitative study of SMEs

ABSTRACT This study investigates the intricate relationship between management accounting (MA) practices and financial performance (FP) in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Italy and Germany, offering practical insights for practitioners and policy makers. Despite the theoretical benefits of MA practices like cost accounting, budgeting, and key performance indicators, their implementation in SMEs remains limited. Prior research suggests that SMEs often rely on informal control systems due to resource constraints and a lack of familiarity with MA tools. The COVID-19 pandemic and recent European conflicts have stressed the need for robust MA practices to navigate economic volatility and enhance resilience. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected via questionnaires from 238 SMEs in Italy and Germany, targeting chief financial officers, board members, and majority shareholders. The analysis, employing partial least squares structural equation modeling, reveals a significant positive impact of MA practices on FP. Factors such as resource availability, training, and the culture of control play crucial roles in this relationship. These findings underscore the strategic importance of MA in driving organizational performance and highlight the need for SMEs to adopt these practices more comprehensively. This study offers valuable guidance for SME managers in enhancing operational efficiency and strategic decision making. Moreover, it provides policy makers with evidence-based recommendations to support SME growth and resilience through targeted training programs and resource allocation, ensuring a robust framework for economic stability and development.

“Todos pagan” (Everybody pays): SMEs and urban violence in Medellín, Colombia

Medellín, a bustling city of 2.5 million, is marked by convivial relations between formal and informal economic activity, and between legal and criminal actors. This article examines what this context means for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and how they respond to it. In Medellín and elsewhere, SMEs are more numerous than large firms but operate at a smaller scale. They are organizationally more informal, less mobile (i.e., more dependent on specific contexts), more accountable to customers and legal authorities, and less prominent in public debate. Their need to act collectively to counter violence may be greater than that of larger companies, yet they may also find it more challenging to organize collective action. As a result, they face possibilities that are different from those of large companies in the context of violence. The article suggests that most SMEs in Medellín have adapted to, or navigate, the multiple, intersecting layers of legality and illegality, of formality and informality, and of actual or threatened violence. Only very few respond by deliberately seeking to change the external environment. Based on a review of official documents, academic literature, and our own observations during several field trips and 39 interviews, we develop a three-part typology of SME responses to violent actors: acquiescence, avoidance, and mitigation. The implications of our findings will be relevant to managers interested in understanding business conditions in the presence of organized criminal activity and the ways in which SMEs have adapted their own practices to those conditions. The findings suggest that some SME strategies are more effective than others in supporting the survival and growth of SMEs in violent contexts. But while cooperation with illegal actors for the purpose of safeguarding economic activities may be conducive to keeping the peace and ensuring enterprise viability in the short run, it also poses challenges to outcomes that would be more beneficial to communities in the long run: empowerment, institutional strengthening, and inclusive economic development.

Promoting financial inclusion for SMEs: Leveraging AI and data analytics in the banking sector

Financial inclusion is crucial for the growth and sustainability of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are significant contributors to economic development and job creation. However, traditional banking models often fall short in serving the unique needs of SMEs due to perceived high risks and insufficient credit history. Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics, the banking sector can transform its approach to financial inclusion, offering tailored financial products and services that cater specifically to SMEs. AI and data analytics enable banks to analyze vast amounts of data from diverse sources, including transactional histories, social media activity, and market trends. This holistic view of an SME's financial health and business potential allows for more accurate risk assessment and credit scoring. Machine learning algorithms can identify patterns and predict creditworthiness, enabling banks to extend credit to SMEs that may have been overlooked by traditional models. Additionally, AI-driven insights facilitate the development of customized financial products, such as flexible loan terms and dynamic interest rates, that align with the cash flow cycles and operational realities of SMEs. Automated processes and AI-powered chatbots enhance customer service, providing SMEs with timely support and financial advice, thereby improving their banking experience. Data analytics also play a critical role in fraud detection and prevention, ensuring the security of transactions and building trust among SME clients. By continuously monitoring and analyzing transaction data, banks can quickly identify and mitigate fraudulent activities, protecting SMEs from financial losses. Moreover, AI and data analytics support the creation of financial literacy programs tailored to the specific needs of SMEs, empowering business owners with the knowledge and tools to make informed financial decisions. This educational aspect is vital in fostering a sustainable financial ecosystem for SMEs. In conclusion, the integration of AI and data analytics in the banking sector holds significant promise for promoting financial inclusion among SMEs. By providing more accessible, customized, and secure financial services, banks can support the growth and success of SMEs, ultimately contributing to broader economic development and financial stability.

Twice as effective: business environment, SME owners’ satisfaction, and local government revenue performance

ABSTRACT Spatial disparities in human and social capital, entrepreneurial culture, and industrial specialisation emphasise the pivotal role of local governments in shaping the business environment. Nevertheless, scant attention has been accorded to the complex relationships between local government activities, small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) owners’ satisfaction, and subsequent local economic outcomes. Using exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modelling on data from 513 SME owners, we found that higher SME owner satisfaction is positively associated with increased local employment and amplified municipal tax revenues from SMEs. Interestingly, our results indicate a negative relationship between SME owner satisfaction and the annual change in self-employment rates within the locality. This study contributes to the literature by empirically linking local government services to tangible economic outcomes through SME owners’ satisfaction. It provides valuable insights for policymakers on optimising the local business environment to foster SME growth and enhance municipal economic performance.

Analysis of the key factors for small and medium-sized enterprises growth using principal component analysis

Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) significantly contribute to national economic development worldwide. However, numerous factors affect the growth of SMEs, particularly in developing economies. Due to the complexity of these variables, it is challenging to determine where to begin improving SMEs. This study aims to identify and analyse the factors that hinder the overall performance of (SMEs) to gain insights into the principal variables constituting problems. A literature survey identified and abstracted 36 variables that influence SME growth. A structured questionnaire was created using the variables and administered to the respondents in the SME sector. We collated and converted the respondents' scores into primary data. The data was analysed using Kendall's Coefficient of Concordance (W) and Principal Component Analytics (PCA) tools, and the results were presented. The result of Kendall's Coefficient of Concordance analysis was (W) = 0.52, indicating that the judges strongly agree that the 36 variables affect SME growth. The PCA analysis identified the critical variables affecting SME growth. These variables, along with their corresponding factor loading, include Marketing information = 0.80, Cost of transportation = 0.81, Information technology = 0.83, Economic initiatives = −0.83, Financial constraints = −0.80, Cultural change = 0.80, Technical know-how = 0.822, Economic factors = −0.80, and Business information system = 0.813. The implication of the study's findings for management is that SMEs should begin process improvement for effective overall performance by addressing the problems associated with the critical variables. The perceived limitation of the study is that the respondents' opinions may not reflect 100 % of the opinions of the unsampled population in the SME sector. This study's originality includes (i) holistic documentation of the myriad of variables influencing SMEs, which are fragmented in the literature, and (ii) pinpointing the critical variables affecting SME development with measurable evidence not found in the literature.

THE IMPACT OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION ON NIGERIAN SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES (SMES) IN THE GLOBAL BUSINESS LANDSCAPE

Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are pivotal economic entities, and their adaptability in an evolving global business landscape is integral to sustainable growth. This study delves into the profound influence of digital transformation on Nigerian SMEs, offering a comprehensive analysis of the extent to which digitalization shapes their competitiveness, operations, and associated challenges. Employing a quantitative research approach, data from a diverse sample of Nigerian SMEs is collected to assess the relationship between digital transformation and SME outcomes. Demographically, the surveyed SMEs portray a multifaceted distribution across various industries, business sizes, geographic locations, annual revenues, and years in operation. A substantial proportion actively integrates digital tools and technologies into their operations, underscoring their recognition of the strategic value of digitalization. Perceived benefits of digital transformation encompass amplified operational efficiency, extended market access, innovation, elevated customer satisfaction, cost savings, and streamlined internal processes. However, challenges, notably financial constraints, a dearth of digital skills among employees, and regulatory barriers, reflect the multifaceted nature of obstacles faced by SMEs in their digital transformation journey. The study establishes a significant relationship between digital transformation and SME competitiveness. SMEs acknowledge its role in amplifying their global market reach, augmenting their competitiveness on a global scale, strengthening their competitive position within industries, nurturing international partnerships, expanding market share, and enhancing brand visibility in global markets. In essence, this research posits that digital transformation plays an indispensable role in the growth and competitiveness of Nigerian SMEs within the global business landscape. The findings serve as a cornerstone for informed decisions, strategies, and interventions to augment the digital capabilities of Nigerian SMEs, fostering their resilience and competitiveness in an increasingly digital world.

Financial Literacy on Digital Banking and Financial Performance among Small and Medium- Sized Enterprises in Sri Lanka

This study delves into how financial literacy shapes the relationship between digital banking and the financial performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sri Lanka. Quantitative data were gathered from 380 SMEs across nine provinces using a deductive approach. Utilizing SPSS, the study scrutinized how financial literacy moderates the connection between digital banking and SME financial performance. Results reveal a significant and positive moderating influence of financial literacy on this relationship. Furthermore, the study highlights the constructive impact of digital banking on SME development and financial performance in Sri Lanka. Importantly, participation in financial literacy programs provided by entrepreneurial support organizations emerges as a crucial factor in equipping SME owners with the requisite knowledge for making informed financial decisions. This research underscores the pivotal roles of financial literacy and digital banking in bolstering SMEs, advocating for their strategic utilization to elevate financial performance. Additionally, it fills an important gap in understanding by examining how mobile, digital, and digital banking affect SMEs in Sri Lanka. This emphasizes the crucial role of financial literacy in encouraging the adoption of digital banking and promoting SME growth in developing economies.

Impact of pollution prevention practices and green environmental practices on sustainable performance: Empirical evidence from Chinese SMEs

Adequate protection of the environment is one of the hot spots of concern for all sectors of society due to severe environmental pollution. The solution to this issue is friendly management of the environment. With the rapid growth of Chinese Manufacturing SMEs for economic development, environmental pollution and abuse of resources are arising. To resolve these issues, Chinese manufacturing SMEs are accelerating the implementation of green innovation in their industries. However, it is a complex task that involves enterprise, government, and social considerations. Therefore, it is essential to identify the green drivers for this implementation. With a focus on China's current situation from previous research and views from experts, this study aims to investigate how Chinese Manufacturing Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are responding to resource misuse and environmental pollution by implementing green innovation, emphasising the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in improving environmental performance. This study primarily looks into the factors that influence the adoption of green innovations by analysing the growth paths of Chinese SMEs operating in highly polluting industries over a longer time frame than five years. Artificial Intelligence is a valuable tool for solving the issues of ecological degradation. A quantitative method has been implemented for the Chinese companies' samples from the deeply polluting industries for more than five years. The findings of this paper advise that the average board size, the governing board meetings, and organizational performance are positively connected with the Chinese firms' environmental process. Board independence and diversity of gender have irrelevant associations with ecological performance. A convenient threshold regression model has been used to accumulate the respondents' data. It also reveals that larger board sizes and more frequent governing board meetings are positively associated with improved environmental performance among these firms. The findings state the critical implications for the firm executives, policymakers, environmental activists, and regulators. This result supports the insight drained from the resource dependence, stakeholder, firm agency, and legitimacy theories.

Statistical analysis and open innovation in economic growth of scottish business SMEs for sustainable development

The propulsion of economic growth is a multifaceted construct, influenced by technology, capital, and resource management, with Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) being a significant contributors to innovation and employment. This study examines the growth of Scottish SMEs across four sectors over a 14-year period (2008–2021) by employing a novel statistical approach to understand their development trajectories within the framework of open innovation. The paper engaged in a longitudinal analysis to assess trends and inform policy for sustainable growth by the utilization of open-access data. Theoretical metrics such as the Average Growth Rate, Compound Average Growth Rate (CAGR), and Year-Over-Year (YoY) Growth were applied to evaluate sectoral performance. The findings revealed varied growth patterns; the information technology sector exhibited a robust increase, while the telecommunications sector showed significant percentage growth. Conversely, the Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) sector experienced a decline that suggests a potential market gap. An affirmative trajectory in CAGR was observed in most sectors except ICT, which corroborates a shift in technological evolution and market needs. The study illuminates the dynamic economic landscape of Scottish SMEs, with telecoms emerging as the most prosperous sector in terms of growth rates, thus indicates a shifting economic focus. The study’s limitations are briefly discussed, in addition to the need for updated databases and further research employing predictive modeling with machine learning to enhance forecasting capabilities and foster open innovation for sustainable economic development.

Different countries, different institutions: how do brand-oriented SMEs leverage branding capabilities to boost export performance?

PurposeThis study aims to develop a moderated mediation model that enables the examination of the direct relationship between brand orientation (BO) and export performance, the mediating effects of external and internal branding capabilities on the BO-export performance link, and the moderating influence of institutional environment, i.e. regulatory turbulence and policy support.Design/methodology/approachA time-lag primary data was collected from two-wave survey of 684 cross-industry exporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) using an online-email based survey technique, and the research model was validated using ordinary least squares regression analysis in SPSSV.27 and Hayes’ PROCESS macroV.2.13.FindingsRegression findings indicate that the relationship between BO and export performance is not direct, but rather mediated by means of both external and internal branding capabilities. It further helps to uncover the dual role of institutional environment, with regulatory turbulence weakening and policy support strengthening the indirect influences of BO on export performance via external and internal branding capabilities.Research limitations/implicationsThis study advances branding literature by conceptualizing and empirically testing the role of BO associated with internal and external branding capabilities and, subsequently, with export performance.Practical implicationsThe research findings indicate that brand-oriented SMEs must actively engage in the development of branding capabilities to improve their export performance.Originality/valueWhile brand creation is essential for the success and growth of SMEs competing in the worldwide marketplaces, there is a dearth of research explaining the underlying mechanisms and boundary conditions through which BO influences export performance.

The relationship between humble leadership and employee innovative behavior in Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage (CICH) SMEs: Mediated-moderating effect of knowledge sharing and absorptive capacity

This research focuses on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within China's intangible cultural heritage (CICH) sector and investigates the relationships between employee innovative behavior (EIB), humble leadership (HL), knowledge sharing (KS) and absorptive capacity (AC). It examines how knowledge sharing, as a mediator, impacts EIB, considering the moderating role of AC. This study aims to address the knowledge gap regarding how leadership and knowledge management processes affect individual-level outcomes, such as creative behavior and problem-solving skills. This research is especially vital for the CICH sector in China, as it offers the first systematic exploration of employee innovative behavior in this area. By providing evidence-based management strategies, the study contributes to both theoretical understanding and practical application, supporting the innovation, sustainable growth, and international competitiveness of CICH SMEs. It also offers policymakers empirical insights to nurture the sector, ensuring the preservation and evolution of China's intangible cultural heritage.

Digital transformation in SMEs: Understanding its determinants and size heterogeneity

Digital transformation plays a vital role in the success of firms, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The business landscape is becoming more challenging for small businesses and they must navigate this complexity by adopting digitalization. However, many of them fail in this process. Our study aims to understand the main determinants of digital transformation, and the effect of size heterogeneity within SMEs. To this end, we apply the resource-based view, the technology-organization-environment framework and the technology acceptance model to a statistically representative sample of Spanish SMEs. We show that the manager's academic background, internationalization and firm size have a positive impact on digital adoption. Knowledge resulting from professionalization and an international context plays a critical role in overcoming SMEs' limitations and achieving digital transformation. Moreover, the positive effect of size is moderated by the levels of managerial education and internationalization. We go beyond the comparison between SMEs and large companies, by providing evidence about size heterogeneity within SMEs. Our findings provide valuable guidance for SMEs' digital transformation journeys, encouraging managers to embrace new knowledge and capabilities. Additionally, SME growth can facilitate digital transformation. Policymakers should develop programs aimed at promoting SME professionalization and international expansion.