Small And Medium-sized Enterprises Sector Research Articles

Ocena zależności między rozwojem branży leasingowej a wzrostem gospodarczym w Polsce

According to the data published in 2022 by the Polish Agency of Enterprise Development (Polska Agencja Rozwoju Przedsiębiorczości – PARP), small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) generate 49.6% of the Polish GDP. At the same time, the SME sector is the largest recipient of services offered by the leasing industry. The aim of the research described in the article was to determine whether a long-run relationship exists between the development of the leasing industry and the economic growth in Poland. The analysis was based on GDP per capita time series and the actual net value of leasing contracts per capita as measures of economic growth and the activity of the leasing industry, respectively. The research used quarterly data for the years 2010 –2021, obtained from Statistics Poland publications and the dataset available on the Polish Leasing Association (Związek Polskiego Leasingu – ZPL) website. The results of cointegration analysis and the error correction mechanism confirmed the existence of a long-run relationship between the activity of the leasing industry and the economic growth in Poland.

Creating an entrepreneurs’ movement: SME associations as political actors in late twentieth-century Finland

When scholars study business power, they usually focus on big business. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which comprise the vast majority of companies, are therefore excluded. The article looks at how Finnish SMEs have defended their interests in an increasingly corporatist country. It focuses especially on how they have managed to resolve the collective action problem, which prior theoretical studies have identified as a major issue in the heterogonous SME sector. We find that one association managed to build ‘a movement’ by underlining common threats to SMEs. We also assess the steps taken by other, smaller and less populist SME associations, arguing that that such diversity has brought some benefits, as competing associations have employed different tactics and been active in separate arenas. This article is based on the archives of SME associations and other business associations as well as earlier research, memoirs, other published works and newspaper articles.

Az információbiztonság időszerű kérdései a magyarországi kkv-k körében

Összefoglalás. A tanulmány célja az információbiztonság vizsgálata a magyarországi kis- és középvállalkozások (kkv-k) körében. Tanulmányunk aktualitását az adja, hogy az Európai Unió Bizottsága által évente kiadott Digitális Gazdaság és Társadalom Indexe szerint a magyarországi kkv-kat alacsony adat- és információbiztonsági szint jellemzi. Kutatásunk során egyaránt alkalmaztunk kvalitatív és kvantitatív módszereket. Az előbbinél dokumentumelemzéssel megvizsgáltuk, hogy a hazai szakirodalom milyen fontosabb információbiztonsági kihívásokat azonosít, illetve interjúk segítségével feltérképeztük a kkv-k információbiztonsági gyakorlatait és kihívásait, az utóbbinál pedig egy online, nagymintás kérdőív révén vizsgáltuk a szektor vezetőinek információbiztonsággal kapcsolatos véleményét, fejlettségét. Summary. The aim of the study is to examine information security among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Hungary. The relevance of our study is that, according to the Digital Economy and Society Index published annually by the Commission of the European Union, Hungarian SMEs are characterised by a low level of data and information security. In our research, we used both qualitative and quantitative methods. In the former, we conducted a document analysis to identify the main information security challenges identified in the domestic literature and mapped the information security practices and challenges of SMEs through interviews, while in the latter, we used an online, large-scale questionnaire to investigate the views and development of the sector’s managers on information security. The findings of our study are based on the responses of 150 SME managers and 31 IT professionals working in the sector. We divided our questionnaire into six sections: demographics, business profile, device usage, digital habits, information security awareness survey based on the international HAIS-Q, information security awareness in daily practice. In the present research we deviated somewhat from the international model, firstly because we had to adapt the model to the domestic requirements and our research objectives, and secondly because this model was only a part of our questionnaire. During the research we have clearly identified the need to develop and implement practice-oriented training programmes that can help managers and IT professionals in the domestic SME sector to develop their information security awareness and even to make the transition to Industry 4.0. Based on the responses to the interview questions, it can be concluded that, overall, SME managers and their organisations are increasingly starting to build cybersecurity solutions and information security measures around their organisation. There is still a need to develop and share information security good practices that can reach SMEs, as there is a need for training and exchange of experiences, but not all companies are fully committed to the issue, so the actual need for action and organisation is ultimately lagging behind. A small proportion of the organisations surveyed have been victims of a cybersecurity incident and a good proportion of SME managers believe that until an incident has happened to an employee or the organisation, they will not learn from it. Basically, there is a growing demand for increased security and the use of security tools and education in information security, but this is evolving as a slow process and not as fast as the world around us is changing, so it is questionable when an information security explosion will occur that may radically change the tools and attitudes of organisations.

INNOVATION BARRIER TO SMES DEVELOPMENT: EVIDENCE FROM AFGHANISTAN

Innovation plays a vital role not only in large firms but also in small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) worldwide. In Afghanistan, SMEs are emerging to influence the economies by employing, contributing to exports and forming a major portion of export and tax revenues. This study aims to examine the innovation barriers to development at the SME level to offer policy implications in Afghanistan. The Two-Hierarchical Level Model (HLM) was used. A questionnaire was designed using the thematic areas of business innovation literature and adapted following Oslo's manual's recommendations. Collected in 2020 the cross-sectional data was examined through an empirical analysis by testing five research hypotheses to validate the research framework. The target population was the SME key persons in Kabul city. Results show that firm characteristics are innovation barriers, SMEs that did not innovate were smaller in terms of employees and assets, lack of finance was a reason for abandoning innovative projects, and there are hierarchical barriers that humper innovation at the organizational, value chain and market level. There is a real need to continue studying the development of the innovation barriers for SME sectors that may enrich the world communities.

Building Cybersecurity Capacities in Zambia’s Business Sector: Guideline for SMEs

This research explores cybersecurity awareness and implementation within Zambia’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), a sector increasingly targeted by cyberattacks that lead to substantial financial losses. The study’s primary aim was to enhance cyber awareness and develop actionable guidelines for SMEs in Zambia. Utilising an interpretivist philosophy and inductive approach, the methodology encompassed semi-structured interviews, cross-sectional analysis, and a comprehensive review of CISA, ENISA guidelines, and Zambia’s Data Protection Act. Findings indicate a notable deficit in cybersecurity training and awareness among SMEs. Key concerns include inadequate data security measures, a lack of formal cybersecurity policies, and a reliance on basic tools like antivirus software. In response, the study formulated targeted guidelines, emphasising the integration of cyber awareness into SME governance and risk management. These guidelines have garnered significant interest from Zambian government entities, highlighting their potential influence on national cybersecurity policy. The study contributes theoretically by contextualising international cybersecurity standards within Zambia’s unique SME landscape. Methodologically, it pioneers a Cyber Awareness Framework tailored to Zambian SMEs, underscoring the critical role of human factors in cybersecurity. Practically, the research has sparked engagement among SMEs and government bodies, demonstrating its applicability and potential for shaping policy. However, limitations include reliance on outdated demographic data and a focus on digitally enabled SMEs, potentially overlooking broader IT governance aspects and less digitized businesses. Future research should aim for comprehensive, up-to-date analysis across all SME sectors, contributing to a more inclusive and resilient cybersecurity landscape in Zambia.

The impact of ICT capabilities on supply chain fraud and sustainability – a dynamic capability perspective

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the influence of information and communication technology (ICT) capabilities on supply chain fraud and sustainability within the context of Ghana’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Additionally, the research explores the mediating role of supply chain fraud in the relationship between ICT capabilities and supply chain sustainability.Design/methodology/approachData were collected from 102 respondents within Ghana’s SME sector, and the research employed the dynamic capability theory as the conceptual framework. The study utilized partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to develop and analyze the proposed model.FindingsThe results of the study reveal a significant reduction in supply chain fraud attributable to enhanced ICT capabilities within Ghanaian SMEs. Moreover, ICT capabilities exert a significant positive influence on supply chain sustainability. Importantly, supply chain fraud emerges as a mediator, elucidating its role at the nexus of supply chain sustainability and ICT capabilities.Originality/valueThis research contributes to the limited body of evidence on the interconnectedness of ICT capabilities, supply chain fraud and supply chain sustainability, particularly within the context of Ghanaian SMEs. Notably, this study pioneers an examination of the mediating impact of supply chain fraud on the relationship between ICT capabilities and supply chain sustainability.

Development of Small and Medium-Sized Businesses in Certain Areas of the Central Federal District of the Russian Federation in the Context of State Support Measures and the Regions' Own Potential

The relevance. The main problem of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Russian Federation is that government support measures are not always an incentive to development: the dominance of large businesses,the difficult economic situation and the desire for stable profits often force SME organizations to simply exist on state-provided capital in isolation from the regional economic situation. The solution to this problem forms the relevance of the chosen topic. The purpose of this study is to study the main statistical patterns of changes in the financial situation of SMEs in the regions of the Central Federal District of the Russian Federation in terms of their quantitative and qualitative development. Objectives. To achieve this goal, an analysis of official statistical data on SMEs in certain regions of the Central Federal District of the Russian Federation was carried out: their position in the general federal rating, revenue and number of employees, as well as the total number of SMEs over a five-year period. Methodology. To obtain the results of the study, general scientific methods were used: induction, deduction; statistical methods: observation, grouping, analysis of dynamics and structure. Results: the share of SMEs in the Russian economy in comparison with developed European countries is analyzed; the main problems associated with the resulting low proportion of SMEs in our country are presented; the analysis of the structure of small business in Russia by industry is carried out; a comparative analysis of the revenue indicators of SME enterprises, taking into account relevant government support measures, is also presented, the dynamics of the number of organizations in the SME sector is presented, the dynamics of economic indicators of the turnover of funds and the average number of jobs in SME organizations are reflected; the measures of state support for SMEs are considered and their effectiveness is assessed. Conclusion. State centralized financial support for small and medium-sized businesses, without any doubt, is, if not an incentive to development, then at least a guarantee of the survival of many enterprises in this business segment.

The Influence of Accounting Information System on Financial Performance of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in Kangar, Perlis

Accounting Information Systems (AIS) play a pivotal role in shaping the financial performance of companies in Malaysia, with particular significance for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs). However, the intricate nature of AIS presents formidable challenges and barriers for SMEs, necessitating a thorough examination of its impact on their operational efficiency and financial outcomes. This study aims to elucidate the nexus between AIS and SMEs' financial performance by focusing on three crucial variables: timeliness, transparency, and accuracy. The study employed questionnaire surveys, with a total sample size of 357 respondents drawn from a population of 4,735 SMEs in Kangar, Perlis. Utilising SPSS Statistics Software, the collected data underwent rigorous analysis, including correlation and multi-regression analyses. The results underscored a highly significant impact of timeliness, transparency, and accuracy of AIS on SMEs' financial performance. These findings offer invaluable insights into the pivotal role of AIS in augmenting SMEs' financial performance, highlighting avenues for optimising their accounting systems. By shedding light on the intricate dynamics between AIS and SMEs' financial outcomes, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underpinning effective financial management in the SME sector. Moreover, it provides actionable recommendations for SMEs to leverage AIS effectively, thereby enhancing their competitiveness and sustainability in the dynamic business landscape of Malaysia.

Work-Life Balance in SME Sector and Large Enterprises

Abstract The concept of Work-Life Balance (WLB), which involves finding a harmonious equilibrium between work and personal life, has gained considerable importance across the European Union. In 2019, the European Parliament adopted a directive that requires all member states to integrate the principles of WLB, aiming to promote gender equality and fair treatment in the labor market (Directive on transparent and predictable working conditions in the European Union and Directive on work-life balance for parents and carers). This perspective offers significant opportunities and potential, while also posing challenges for entrepreneurs. An analysis of the literature on the subject indicates that the issue of WLB should be analyzed in the context of company size. The main objective of the research is to analyze and evaluate WLB among employees in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and large enterprises in Poland. The main results reflect that employees of companies in Poland (both SMEs and large enterprises) indicate a wide range of tools as having, in their opinion, an impact on WLB. Companies in Poland most commonly utilize tools such as flexible working hours and hybrid work. Findings confirm that WLB is less frequently implemented in the SME sector compared to large enterprises, and that employees in large enterprises have a better maintained WLB compared to employees in the SME sector. Implementing WLB is a challenge for the SME sector.

The role of competitor orientation and proactiveness in competitive advantage for small- and medium-sized enterprises performance

Background: As small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the primary source of job creation in Nigeria and contribute 48% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), their performance must be enhanced and sustainability ensured. The article suggests that through competitor orientation and proactiveness, SME managers and owners can achieve competitive advantage which ultimately promotes firm performance.Aim: The article aims to examine how competitor orientation and proactiveness in competitive advantage enhance the performance of SMEs in Nigeria.Setting: The study focused on registered SME owners and managers who are operating in Nigeria, using Lagos State as a case study.Methods: This study was conducted through administering questionnaires to owners and/or managers of SMEs as the unit of analysis. A quantitative research design was used with stratified and simple random sampling as the sampling method, with the sample comprising 100 SME owners and/or managers.Results: The results of the study indicated that competitive advantage mediates the relationship between competitor orientation, proactiveness and SMEs’ performance indirectly. It further revealed that competitor orientation and proactiveness have significant effects on SMEs’ performance.Conclusion and contribution: The article reveals how competitive advantage, which is influenced by competitor orientation and proactiveness, contributes to increased SMEs’ performance in SME sectors. Thus, to gain a competitive edge over their rivals, the study recommends that SME owners and managers consider competitor orientation and proactiveness more seriously, as these factors ultimately boost their performance.

Lean HRM practices in manufacturing SMEs: exploring the interplay among the influencing factors

Purpose This study aims to investigate the implementation of lean human resource management (HRM) practices in manufacturing small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and explore how various factors interact to influence their successful adoption. By exploring the interplay among these factors, the research seeks to identify key drivers affecting the adoption of lean HRM in manufacturing SMEs. Ultimately, the research intends to provide insights that can guide organisations, practitioners and policymakers in effectively implementing lean HRM practices to enhance operational efficiency, workforce engagement and competitiveness within the manufacturing SME sector. Design/methodology/approach The study combined total interpretive structural modelling (TISM) and Matrice d'Impacts Croisés Multiplication Appliquée à un Classement (MICMAC) analysis. TISM helped in understanding the hierarchical relationship among different factors influencing lean HRM implementation, whereas MICMAC analysis provided insights into the level of influence and dependence of each factor on others. Findings The research revealed that “top management support” emerged as the most independent factor, indicating that strong support from top management is crucial for initiating and sustaining lean HRM practices in manufacturing SMEs. On the other hand, “employee involvement and empowerment” was identified as the most dependent factor, suggesting that fostering a culture of employee engagement and empowerment greatly relies on the successful implementation of lean HRM practices. Research limitations/implications While the study provided valuable insights, it has certain limitations. The research was conducted within the specific context of manufacturing SMEs, which might limit the generalizability of the findings to other industries. Expert opinions introduce subjectivity in data collection. Additionally, the study may not cover all critical factors, allowing room for further exploration in future research. Practical implications The findings have practical implications for manufacturing SMEs aiming to implement lean HRM practices. Recognising the pivotal role of top management support, organisations should invest in cultivating a strong leadership commitment to lean HRM initiatives. Furthermore, enhancing employee involvement and empowerment can lead to better adoption of lean HRM practices, resulting in improved operational efficiency and overall competitiveness. Originality/value This research contributes to the field by offering a comprehensive exploration of the interplay among factors influencing lean HRM implementation. The use of TISM and MICMAC analysis provides a unique perspective on the relationship dynamics between these factors, allowing for a nuanced understanding of their roles in the adoption of lean HRM practices in manufacturing SMEs. The identification of “top management support” as the most independent and “employee involvement and empowerment” as the most dependent factors adds original insights to the existing literature.

Relationships between Sustainable Operations and the Resilience of SMEs

In the 21st century, the primary concerns within our society and economic framework revolve around securing a sustainable future and ensuring our future prospects. The crises witnessed in recent years have both introduced new challenges and revived existing difficulties. The crucial question emerges: can societies and economies demonstrate the resilience necessary to avert impending dangers during such circumstances? This consideration holds particular significance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in the global economy. SMEs play a vital role in national economies, and their importance is even more pronounced within our national societies. Addressing threats and challenges in the SME sector proves to be more challenging due to their compact size, which lacks the protective shield against various environmental impacts enjoyed by larger enterprises with their greater size and capabilities. On the other hand, due to their smaller size, SMEs may be able to overcome these obstacles more successfully than large enterprises by using the appropriate tools and investing in opportunities. The aim of this article is to investigate to what extent environmental protection investments and other sustainability-related developments increase the resilience of SMEs. In connection with the above mentioned, it was investigated how the combination of marketing communication and sustainability goals, and how appropriate communication of sustainability, contributes to increasing the resilience of Hungarian SMEs. The analysis is based on a grouping of 266 small and medium-sized enterprises using the variables created based on the literature review and expert interviews.

CHALLENGES AND FACTORS AFFECTING THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF SME-s IN ALBANIA

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are crucial for the economic development of a country, playing an important role in job creation, poverty alleviation and economic growth. SMEs play a major role in most economies, particularly in developing countries. SMEs account for the majority of businesses worldwide and are important contributors to job creation and global economic development. In Albania, SMEs represent more than 99% of the total number of enterprises and the percentage of employees in this sector is 82% (INSTAT, 2023). For this reason, identifying factors affecting the development of SMEs in Albania is very important, in order to take all the necessary steps to reduce barriers as well as create opportunities and facilities for supporting this sector. Small and medium-sized enterprises play an important role in the development of the national economy, influencing sustainable growth in the agriculture, services, trade, and production sectors. They are major contributors to value creation across all sectors. The development of SMEs, especially in transition countries faces several difficulties such as limited access to finance, increased competition, low research and development costs, high levels of exposure to risk, technological change, and capacity constraints related to knowledge and innovation. As an important factor for economic growth and employment, it is important to evaluate the performance of SMEs in the country as well as the constraints and challenges they face. The purpose of this study is to analyze and evaluate the factors that affect the sustainable development of the SMEs sector. The findings of the study are relevant to government, policymakers and managers to address these challenges, to encourage and offer support to SMEs’ development through their strategies.

Application of BSC and EFQM models in small and medium-sized enterprises

Research background: The BSC and EFQM models are important tools to help SMEs to improve their performance through strategic initiatives in cooperation with operational activities, through the essential elements of these models. Purpose of the article: The objective of the research presented in this paper is to analyse and compare the existence of Balanced Scorecard and EFQM models in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and to suggest possibilities of applying these models to a wider range of SMEs. Methods: The process of evaluating research aim was based on a questionnaire survey. The number of respondents was 378. Both small and medium-sized enterprises participated in the survey, with the number of their employees being as follows: from 1 to 9 a total of 28.6% enterprises (28.6%), from 10 to 49 a total of 38.1% enterprises (38.1%) and from 50 to 249 a total of 33.3% enterprises. The methods of descriptive statistics and correlation and regression analysis were used to test the scientific hypotheses. Findings & Value added: Since the research results point to a relatively high dependence, it can be concluded that implementing the models in the SME sector has its justification. In terms of their management practice, the authors of this paper have used the findings directly in their consulting and research activities, and have incorporated the models into strategic management systems of particular enterprises. Recommendations presented here are therefore based on the research as well as conclusions of the hypotheses tested regarding the above two models and their larger introduction to SMEs. The rate of use of the BSC model in SMEs has a statistically significant positive effect on the model performance measurement system. Our results also confirmed that the rate of use of the EFQM models (H3B) in SMEs has not a statistically significant positive effect on the performance measurement system (PMS).

Mobile Money and SME Growth: A Zambian Perspective

Purpose: An in-depth analysis of how mobile money services influence the growth and development of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Zambia. This research explores the expanding realm of mobile money in Zambia, a region experiencing swift technological uptake alongside the growing small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) industry.
 Methodology: Using a blend of qualitative and quantitative research methods, data was gathered from 150 SMEs across various industries in Lusaka. The study examines key factors such as transactional efficiency, access to financial services, cost reduction, and enhanced financial management facilitated by mobile money platforms. It also explores the challenges faced by SMEs in adopting these digital financial tools.
 Findings: The findings reveal a significant correlation between the use of mobile money services and SME growth, characterized by increased operational efficiency, broader market access, and improved financial management.
 Unique contributor to theory, policy and practice: This study not only underscores the important role of mobile money in transforming the economic structure for SMEs in Zambia but also provides valuable insights for policymakers and financial service providers aiming to boost the SME sector through technological innovation. The research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on digital finance and its impact on emerging economies, highlighting the unique dynamics and opportunities within the Zambian context.

Sustainable performance management in the EU SME sector. A review and analysis of concepts and methods of strategic management accounting

Purpose: The paper’s main objective is to structure the knowledge of the existing regulatory frameworks, projects and actions that support sustainable performance management (SPM) in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) against the backdrop of the growing significance of the circular economy. The paper will also evidence how strategic management accounting (SMA) assists this process, what individual metrics, dashboards or scorecard concepts have been proposed and how their use may be assessed. Methodology/approach: The research methods include (1) a descriptive systematic analysis of the policies established by the policymakers and regulators in the EU, (2) a comparative analysis of various organisations’ initiatives, actions, delivered toolkits and their outputs, and (3) a literature review of the essential works and research studies on sustainable business models (SBMs), circular business models (CBMs) and SPM in the context of SMEs. Findings: The policies established in the EU support SPM by encouraging SMEs to be involved in sustainable business practices and indicating how to embark on a green transition. Recently, multiple initiatives have been aimed at indicating the opportunities the closed-loop economy system offers SMEs. Many toolkits have also been developed to help SMEs measure their sustainable performance. Although this measurement is vital for SMEs, the business practice falls behind the regulatory framework. Therefore, internal initiatives from the SME sector are needed to popularise the sustainability concept. Research limitations/implications: SMEs show lower levels of compliance with environmental requirements and are unaware of how their activities affect the environment. A limitation of the research is that, in many cases, SMEs are not ready to respond properly to the ESG requirements imposed by regulators. The reason may be a lack of knowledge, experience and limited funds. Therefore, future research should focus on recognizing the gaps in this area and identifying what may be impeding the development of sustainability performance management in SMEs. Originality/value: The work presents the evolution path from the traditional business models (TBMs) through the SBMs to innovative CBMs and addresses their distinctive features. It contributes to the existing knowledge about SMA in SMEs by analysing its links with SPM.

ADDRESSING CLIMATE CHANGE THROUGH ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL, GOVERNANCE (ESG) INITIATIVES: A PRAGMATIC OUTLOOK IN PRESENT ERA

The research explores the pivotal role of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives in addressing the pressing issue of climate change. As global awareness of environmental challenges grows, businesses, investors, and policymakers increasingly recognize the significance of integrating ESG principles into their strategies. This paper examines how ESG initiatives contribute to mitigating climate change through a holistic approach that encompasses environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and effective corporate governance. This study investigates climate change mitigation through Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives in the context of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Rajasthan, India. With a sample size of 370 SMEs, the research employs the Smart-PLS software for comprehensive analysis. Our study explores the pragmatic role of ESG practices in addressing climate change challenges SMEs face in the present era. The findings underscore the significance of integrating sustainability strategies to ensure environmental resilience, social responsibility, and effective governance. While offering valuable insights, the study acknowledges limitations in the scope of ESG factors and the evolving nature of climate change dynamics. Ultimately, the study underscores the importance of collective efforts among stakeholders to foster sustainable practices and combat climate change impacts in Rajasthan's SME sector.

The Nexus Between Working Capital Management Practices and the Financial Performance of Service Sector Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Nairobi City County, Kenya

The Nexus Between Working Capital Management Practices and the Financial Performance of Service Sector Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Nairobi City County, Kenya

The impact of digital inclusive finance on SMEs' technological innovation activities-Empirical analysis based on the data of new third board enterprises.

The landscape of financial technology is undergoing a continuous evolution, driven by the relentless advancement of information technology. In this transformative milieu, digital finance has emerged as a novel financial paradigm, offering a blueprint for fostering inclusive finance. With a particular emphasis on its implications for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), this article harnesses a comprehensive dataset spanning the years 2011 to 2021, encompassing digital inclusive finance and SMEs listed on the SME board. Employing fixed effects models, this study performs a regression analysis to verify the driving effect of digital inclusive finance on SMEs' innovation activities. The findings unequivocally affirm the potency of inclusive finance in ameliorating the longstanding financing constraints that have historically constrained the growth trajectory of SMEs. Furthermore, the study elucidated the nuanced nature of the promotional impact of digital inclusive finance on SMEs, contingent upon their distinct property rights and technological attributes. Specifically, the empirical findings unveil a discernible pattern wherein digital inclusive finance exerts a conspicuously stronger promotional effect on non-state-owned enterprises and high-tech SMEs' endeavors in technological innovation. The conclusions derived from this research furnish a salient point of reference for governmental authorities engaged in the formulation and advancement of digital inclusive finance strategies, thereby imparting strategic guidance for the cultivation of innovation and holistic development within the SME sector.

Unlocking sustainable competitive advantage: exploring the impact of technological innovations on performance in Mexican SMEs within the tourism sector

AbstractThis research inquiry explores the interplay between environmentally sustainable practices, technological innovations and small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) performance in Mexico's tourism sector. The tourism industry in Mexico holds immense economic significance, contributing significantly to employment and revenue generation. However, the sector also faces challenges related to environmental sustainability. Thus, the objective of this research is to assess how the integration of sustainable environmental practices influences the operational outcomes of SMEs. Furthermore, it also aims to conclude the role of technological innovation, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), digitalization and gender in this relationship. A structural equation modeling approach was applied to a sample of 797 Mexican SMEs in the tourism sector. Our findings provide evidence of several contributions: first, environmental sustainability practices improve performance; second, technological innovation, ICT and digitalization play a critical mediating role in specific relationships to foster performance; finally, incentives encourage sustainable practices related to environmental improvement, especially when the SME's CEO is a woman. The results of this study hold practical significance for the SME sector, as it demonstrates that by adopting sustainable practices, SMEs can strengthen their market position, improve technological innovativeness, minimize environmental impact and capitalize on emerging business prospects.