Small Business Research Articles

How globalisation impacted on small and informal businesses in Zimbabwe

ABSTRACT This paper explores the impacts of globalisation on small and informal businesses in Zimbabwe. The Zimbabwean economy has over the last two decades been dependent on small and informal businesses after the country went through a shattering economic crisis that witnessed the collapse of its once flourishing industry. In the wake of this failing formal economy, small informal businesses emerged as a strong alternative economy that has created employment and livelihoods for most of the urban populace. However, in a world that is increasingly contracting and fast becoming one, globalisation has had its impact on these businesses. This paper uses data collected in Norton and Harare through in-depth interviews and ethnographic observations as well as secondary sources to explore and understand the finer details of how the phenomenon has affected small informal businesses in Zimbabwe both positively and negatively over time.

Advanced Detection Techniques to neutralize Supply Chain Cyber-attacks on small and medium businesses in the United States: The Machine Learning and AI Approach.

Cyber-attacks targeting supply chains represent a significant and increasing risk for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in the United States. This paper examines the role of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) in detecting and mitigating these cybersecurity threats. Key challenges faced by SMBs include high implementation costs, a shortage of skilled personnel, inadequate data quality, and the complexity of integrating advanced technologies into existing systems. Despite these hurdles, the paper identifies strategic approaches that can empower SMBs to effectively leverage ML and AI, including affordable solutions, targeted training, and improved data management practices. It emphasizes the importance of addressing privacy and usability concerns to facilitate successful technology adoption. Recommendations include pursuing cost-effective, subscription-based AI and ML models, utilizing government incentives, and enhancing workforce skills through training and partnerships. Additionally, collaboration with larger organizations can improve data management and system efficacy. By implementing robust protective measures and increasing awareness through educational initiatives, SMBs can strengthen their cybersecurity posture and better navigate the evolving landscape of cyber threats.

The mutual influence between entrepreneurial marketing and causal and effectual entrepreneurship: an empirical study in an emerging and developing economy

PurposeEntrepreneurial marketing (EM) literature has evolved recently, but more understanding is needed on how the seven dimensions of EM impact causal and effectual entrepreneurial behavior and, similarly, how entrepreneurial behavior influences the results of all dimensions of the EM construct. This study investigates the association and mutual influence between EM and entrepreneurship.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses a qualitative strategy, addressing gaps due to its low incidence and employs theoretical replication, which is practically unexplored. It investigates two cases in Brazil: small companies (eight cases selected by literal replication) and a structured network of companies (one case selected by theoretical replication), predicting a positive influence of EM in the first case and a negative or neutral influence in the second.FindingsThe influence of EM on entrepreneurship is context-dependent and varies according to the empirical object. In turn, the impact of entrepreneurship on the results of the EM dimensions is more stable, primarily causal and varies slightly between structures.Originality/valueFirst, by studying how the dimensions of EM impact causal/effectual behavior, this study broadens the understanding of the area, which was previously focused on only a few dimensions. Second, by investigating the impact of entrepreneurship on EM outcomes, this study sheds light on the influence of and differences in causal/effectual behavior in each of the seven dimensions. Finally, it extends the understanding of EM and entrepreneurship in small businesses and a structured network by identifying similarities and distinctions hitherto unexplored.

Marketing of Small Business with Regard to Handloom Sector

The present paper explores the marketing practices of handloom based small business enterprises in India. It is assumed that marketing plays an immense role in promoting as well as preserving handloom products. Handloom sector plays a vital role in preservation of traditional craftmanship and also provides job opportunities for the weavers specially women in case of Northeast India. Hence, it is a sector that makes women an empowered and self- reliant person. Small businesses in the handloom sector use a variety of marketing strategies which includes both traditional and modern approaches. Small business in handloom sector face different challenges in marketing of their products.

The Impact of Employee Motivation on Business Performance and Growth

Employee motivation is a key determinant of business performance, influencing productivity, job satisfaction, and organizational success. This research paper explores the relationship between employee motivation and business outcomes using secondary data sources. A thorough literature review is conducted to analyse various motivational theories and their practical applications across small businesses and multinational corporations. The paper highlights leadership’s role in fostering motivation, the challenges in maintaining employee engagement, and how businesses can enhance their motivational strategies. Recommendations are provided based on findings from prior studies, emphasizing the importance of intrinsic and extrinsic motivators in driving business growth

MODELING OF THE AUTOMATED COMPLEX COMPONENTS FOR SEGREGATED RESIDUES GATHERING OF OPERATIONAL PRINTING

Abstract. An overview of the printing industry primary measures regarding the balanced implementation of the sustainable development goals at the regional level was carried out. Based on the latest works analysis in the direction of the enlargement of branch waste management systems, the solutions insufficiency for the limited financial situations of small businesses is revealed, and the relevance of finding optimal means of gathering segregated waste and their temporary storage at the enterprise is shown. The criteria have been established and the stratification of typical categories of orders the operational printing has been carried out according to print run and rest volume. The requirements for the collection and storage of waste raw materials and consumables have been clarified and expanded, in particular regarding the provision of microclimatic conditions. In order to model effective business processes of pro­duction residues management, the construction of a universal complex for target cumulative of pre-segregated substrate scraps in the form of a smart container with a weighing terminal is substantiated. For flexible allocation of corporate flows, the hardware part is implemented from measuring, supervisory and communication blocks depending on their purpose in the automated microprocessor platform. The researched printing waste types the built algorithm of the life cycle of their cumulating made it possible to draw up an architectural diagram of segregator system and determine the main components hierarchy of printing waste receptacle when order manufacturing. As a result, analytical models were built and the modeling of automated complex of segregated residues gathering in operational printing was carried out based on created microcontroller system for monitoring of mass and climate control of cumulated surpluses to maintenance proper conditions their subsequent recycling.

Phenolic Ecotoxins in River Water: Survey on Knowledge and Practices of Road-Side Food Vendors Operating Along River Chania Bank Fringes in Thika Sub- County, Kenya

Purpose: Phenolic ecotoxins consumed in raw surface water from river sources has been implicated in causing diseases of high burden such as cancers, in Kenya. This study was conducted in Thika Sub County, and data collected from roadside food vendors and food hawkers who operate small scale street food business along the fringes and banks of River Chania. The study’s objective was to establish the knowledge on Phenolic ecotoxins present in river water and practices of the study respondents. Methodology: A crossectional descriptive study design was used, in which combined interviews and questionnaire enquiries conducted from, n=341, small-scale road side food vendors and hawkers was analyzed. Findings: Data reveals that none of the respondents had knowledge on Phenolic ecotoxin contaminants and additionally a strongly associated correlation (P<0.001, χ222.6 and df 1), further augments the disclosure that, poor knowledge of raw river water safety and hygiene does result to body harm and ill health. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: There is increased need and effort to scale up the sensitization and awareness on exposure to harmful ecotoxin contaminants from the use of raw river water. Water decontamination mobile units should be considered and introduced especially in urban areas of high population density, transversed by rivers.

Intelligent E-commerce under the Trend of Integration of Artificial Intelligence and E-commerce: A Case Study of Alibaba International Station

Abstract: China has fully entered the era of digital economy, and undoubtedly, the e-commerce industry needs to keep pace with the times and evolve into a new stage of development: integrating artificial intelligence with e-commerce. Nowadays, an abundance of new productivity tools have unveiled new opportunities for the e-commerce industry. This study focuses on Alibaba International, a premier global digital trading platform, to illustrate the applications of artificial intelligence tools in e-commerce, examine both the positive and negative impacts of these tools on e-commerce, and suggest strategies for enhancing e-commerce Operation Management. The aim is to offer enlightenments for small and medium-sized cross-border e-commerce businesses. Through this case analysis, it can be understood that intelligent e-commerce has provided many conveniences for the e-commerce industry, but also faces a series of challenges, such as AI generated false or infringing content, and increased operational management difficulties. In this situation, e-commerce companies should take strengthening the cultivation of intelligent talents as a guarantee, focusing on customer experience and valuing personalized product needs as advantages, and improving operational management efficiency through the reasonable use of favorable policies to bring profits to the enterprise.

Economic influence of prosperity gospel on individual followers in neo-Pentecostal movements in Karingani Ward Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya

The study sought to investigate how prosperity gospel influences the economic aspect of its followers in neo-Pentecostal movements in Karingani Ward Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya. In Kenya, Neo-Pentecostal movements are growing and spreading from urban to rural areas, as witnessed in Karingani Ward, Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya. There has been an increase in self-founded churches, commonly known as charismatic movements, over the past decade. The Functionalism Theory guided the study in analysing the prosperity gospel's influence on its followers' economic aspect. The theory indicates that religion is a social influencer that leads to changes in behaviour and perception or worldview that are essential to economic growth. The study applied the descriptive survey design. Yamane’s formula was applied to obtain a sample size of 288 respondents. In addition, six pastors were selected from the churches; the total sample was 294 respondents. In the six selected churches, a larger population was between (20-50 years); the majority were women and indicated to be small business owners and employed in the private sector. The research instruments utilised were questionnaires, interviews, and focused group discussions. The study's findings revealed that prosperity teachings in Neo-Pentecostal movements positively influenced its followers. Prosperity teaching with biblical grounding had influenced adherents in these movements to have financial, investment, and entrepreneurial abilities through seminars, idea sharing, and continuous assistance from members, which have impacted their followers to experience social status mobility. This paper recommends a future study on how perceived YouTube or social media incomes can benefit all adherents.

An integrated approach using discrete event simulation and design of experiments for working capital management in the fuel retail trade

ABSTRACT This study introduces an innovative approach to Working Capital Management (WCM) in the fuel retail sector, using Discrete Event Simulation (DES) and Design of Experiments (DOE). Efficient WCM is essential for small businesses, particularly in fuel retailing with its tight margins and intense competition. Unlike static financial tools relying on historical data, DES interacts with indicators such as Working Capital Requirement (WCR) and Liquidity Ratios, providing stochastic and accurate information. The study examined three variables (Supplier Payment Deadline, Credit Card Receipt Deadline, and Customer Payment Profile) across 16 experimental scenarios. The Payment Term to Suppliers emerged as the key factor in reducing WCR. Despite lower liquidity potential, the company balanced short-term obligations, identifying optimal WCM scenarios. The study shifts WCM analysis from static data to forecasted, real-time data, supporting dynamic business decision-making. It concludes that DES is a valuable tool for effective WCM in fuel retail, encouraging further research.

Analysing the influence of digital strategy and innovation on MSMEs' performance in emerging countries

Drawing on the technology–organization–environment (TOE) framework, the diffusion of innovation (DOI) theory and the technology acceptance model (TAM), this research analyses how digital strategic orientation has a direct influence on the performance of micro, small and medium‐sized enterprises (MSMEs) in emerging markets and an indirect influence mediated by innovation. Using a representative sample of Peruvian MSMEs, we shed light on the sometimes inconclusive evidence on why small business struggle to benefit from digitalization, a particularly key issue in emerging economies. The structural equation model used shows that the impact of digitalization on firm performance is significant, as is the mediating effect of innovation. Our results imply that the total effect of digitalization on performance will be greater if the MSMEs develop innovative activities. Furthermore, we show that the performance effect requires not only digital technology but also the involvement of the entire organization.

Store Advertising Strategy In Tuban In Increasing Product Appeal

Advertising strategy of Ceker Gobyozz Byozz Tuban Shop and its impact on business growth. Using the Diffusion of Innovation Theory by Everett M. Rogers, this study identifies how innovation in products and advertising strategies can be applied to small businesses. This shop utilizes the trend of spicy food that is popular among young people as the main innovation, accompanied by promotions through social media such as Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, as well as print media in the local community. This strategy is implemented in stages, starting from word-of-mouth (WOM) promotion to the use of more modern media. The results of the study show that a well-integrated advertising strategy can significantly increase the number of visitors. This shop is able to attract around 50-70 visitors per branch per day, with a total turnover of 120 million rupiah per month. In addition, involvement in the local community accelerates the diffusion of innovation and helps the shop reach a wider market. Consumer adoption decisions are influenced by product quality and positive experiences at the shop, which creates customer loyalty. In conclusion, an innovative and targeted advertising strategy is the key to the success of Ceker Gobyozz Byozz Shop, providing important insights for small businesses in developing their businesses through effective promotions.

The Rise of Remote Work Evidence on Productivity and Preferences From Firm and Worker Surveys

ABSTRACTDrawing on surveys of small business owners and employees, we present three main findings about the evolution of remote work after the onset of COVID‐19. First, uptake of remote work was abrupt and widespread in jobs suitable for telework according to the task‐based measure from Dingel and Neiman (2020). The initial adoption lead to a persistent shift in work arrangements that both firms and workers forecast would continue into the future. Second, business leaders' perceptions of how remote work affected productivity shifted over time. In early 2020, 70% of small business owners reported a productivity dip due to remote work. By contrast, the median business owner reported a positive productivity impact of remote work by 2021. Third, 21% of workers report being willing to accept a pay cut in excess of 10% if it allowed them to continue working from home, but the median worker in a teleworkable job would not tradeoff any compensation for the option of continued remote work. Taken together, our evidence points to perceived productivity gains and some workers' preferences as reasons for the persistence of remote work in the years following the onset of COVID‐19.

Access to finance and its impact on operational efficiency of MSMEs: mediating role of entrepreneurial personality and self-efficacy

PurposeThe present study aims to investigate the factors of loan access that affect entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) and operating efficiency of Indian Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Furthermore, the study intended to investigate the influence of ESE on the operating efficiency of Indian MSMEs and its mediating role.Design/methodology/approachIn this study, exploratory research design is used. The study heavily relies on the primary data which has been collected by using the survey research method from a cross-section of 617 women-owned MSMEs, located in urban, rural, suburban and exurban areas of Haryana, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and NCR-Delhi. The partial least square structural equation modeling method version 3.3.3 has been used to evaluate.FindingsIn terms of the selected factors affecting access to finance, it has been established that the Loan Formalities, Banking Process, Loan Process, Staff Responsiveness and Incentive Scheme have a positive and significant influence in enhancing accessibility to finance and improving the self-efficacy and operating performance of firms. The findings also show that ESE mediates the relationship between various factors of loan access and the operating efficiency of MSMEs.Research limitations/implicationsThe study’s findings show that entrepreneurial capacity is significantly and favorably impacted by attitudes toward entrepreneurship, ESE, perceived access to findings and business operations. It has also been demonstrated that entrepreneurial intentions are strongly and favorably influenced by entrepreneurial ability to access commercial bank financing for small businesses and the impact of the same on the women-owned MSMEs in India. It also revealed unfavorable loan terms, limited collateral, fear of repaying of loan and intricate loan application were among the many reasons for loan denial.Originality/valueThe study offers a comprehensive approach that simultaneously considers financial accessibility and ESE. This all-encompassing method offers a thorough grasp of the variables affecting MSMEs' operational efficiency (OE). In contrast to earlier research that might have concentrated only on direct relationships, this study explores the mediating mechanisms involved. This study examines how ESE modulates the influence of financing availability on OE, providing a comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms. By taking into account particular MSME sector characteristics like size, industry or regional variations, the study may provide a unique contextual lens. Understanding how these contextual factors interact with entrepreneurial attributes and access to finance adds depth to the analysis.

Leveraging AI-Driven financial literacy and tax compliance solutions to foster economic growth in underserved communities and small businesses

Underserved communities and small businesses face significant challenges in financial literacy and tax compliance, both of which are critical to economic stability and growth. Limited access to financial education and the complexities of tax systems create barriers that hinder these groups from fully participating in the formal economy. This review explores the potential of leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to address these challenges by providing innovative solutions that enhance financial literacy and simplify tax compliance. AI-driven platforms can offer personalized financial education, using machine learning algorithms to identify knowledge gaps and provide tailored resources to users. Through gamification and interactive tools, AI can make financial education more engaging and accessible, especially for individuals with limited formal education. Furthermore, AI-powered virtual assistants and chatbots can guide users through essential financial decisions, improving budgeting, credit management, and savings habits. In the realm of tax compliance, AI solutions can automate bookkeeping, tax filings, and other administrative tasks, reducing human error and lowering the compliance burden on small businesses. Predictive analytics can assist in tax planning by forecasting liabilities and helping businesses make informed decisions that minimize tax penalties and maximize cash flow. These advancements empower small businesses and entrepreneurs by enabling better financial management, fostering trust in the financial system, and facilitating access to funding opportunities. By integrating AI-driven financial literacy and tax compliance solutions, underserved communities and small businesses can unlock their economic potential, contributing to broader economic growth and financial inclusion. However, challenges such as data privacy, digital access, and regulatory concerns must be addressed to ensure equitable implementation of these technologies. The review concludes that with careful consideration of these factors, AI can be a powerful catalyst for sustainable economic development. Keywords: Leveraging AI-Driven, Financial Literacy Tax Compliance Small Businesses

Sustaining Economic Growth: E-Service Quality’s Role in Fostering Customer Loyalty in Nigeria SMEs

The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of e-service quality on customer loyalty with customer satisfaction as a mediator in the small and medium-sized business sector in Nigeria. The dimensions investigated in this study are reliability, web design, trust, empathy, convenience, and cultural inclusion. To the best of the researchers’ knowledge, there has not been any research done on this subject investigating the above dimensions among Nigerian SMEs across various cultural groups. Therefore, this study fills this gap by investigating the impact of culture, web design, trust, empathy, convenience, and reliability on SMEs. A questionnaire was used for the purpose of the study to collect primary data. Four hundred and ninety-two responses were obtained from the respondents, who were age 20 and above. The survey was carried out online across the four major poles of Nigeria (east, west, north, and south) because of their varying and distinct cultural background. The data collected were analyzed using SPSS 28, Smart PLS 4 and AMOS 29 for descriptive analysis and structural equation modeling to test the research model. The results showed that the service quality dimensions have a positive significant impact on customer satisfaction and also show that customer loyalty is positively impacted by customer satisfaction.

Leveraging Innovation Capability and Organizational Resilience for Business Sustainability Among Small and Medium Enterprises: A PLS-SEM Approach

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of innovation capability on business sustainability in Nigerian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as well as consider the effects of organizational resilience, sustainable competitive advantage, and environmental dynamism as mediators in succession. A quantitative approach was adopted to collect data from 401 employees in SMEs in the Lagos Metropolitan Area of Nigeria. We conducted the analysis of the collected data using the partial least squares approach (PLS-SEM). This research establishes that innovation capabilities are beneficial for ensuring business sustainability. The findings further corroborate the importance of sustainable competitive advantage and environmental dynamism for business sustainability. Finally, the results show that environmental dynamism is important for helping small business owners sustain their businesses and increase their innovation capabilities. Similarly, the indirect paths also showed that resilience organizations, like SMEs, play a role in the paradigm. However, businesses can benefit from this study’s findings by crafting strategies that adapt more quickly to changing market dynamics and capitalize on emerging possibilities. This way, businesses may take the necessary measures to stay ahead of the competition while guaranteeing sustainability. Even though the heuristic model emphasizes originality, the current research on how to successfully link innovative capacity to sustainability and build sustainability in dynamic environments is sparse.

Problems and prospects of digital development of small and medium-sized businesses in the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus

In the modern world of rapidly developing technologies, digitalization has become not just a trend, but a vital condition for the successful functioning of any business, regardless of its scale. In Russia, as in many other countries, digitalization processes have taken a leading position among development priorities. Today digitalization implies the active and widespread introduction of modern digital technologies, automation tools and innovative solutions in all areas of business, which means a transition from traditional, manual methods of work to automated processes based on digital data. Digitalization is of particular importance for the development of Russian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It is this segment of the economy that is the most dynamic, flexible and adaptable to changes in most developed countries of the world. The introduction of digital solutions in small and medium-sized businesses will improve their competitiveness, create new jobs, strengthen economic growth and make Russia more competitive at the global level. The article examines the results of a study of the state of small and medium-sized businesses in Russia and the Republic of Belarus, the degree of implementation of digital technologies in small and medium-sized businesses in the two countries. Based on the results of the comparative analysis, a conclusion was made about the positive dynamics of the development of both the SME sector as a whole and the level of its digitalization, the directions of digital development of small and medium-sized businesses in the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus were determined.

Microfinance as a tool for sustainable development of small and medium-sized businesses in Kyrgyzstan

The article explores the role of microfinance in the development of SMEs in Kyrgyzstan. The authors analyze the significance of this tool for the country's economy and offer practical recommendations for its use. The results of the study emphasize the importance of the potential of microfinance in the support and development of small and medium-sized businesses, contributing to the improvement of socio-economic indicators. At the same time, state support for the activities of SMEs, in particular ensuring access to financing, including microfinance, remains one of the most pressing problems of the Kyrgyz economy, requiring an integrated approach and careful attention from the authorities.

The state and prospects of development of insurance for small and medium-sized businesses in Russia

In modern conditions caused by the instability of the national economy, the role of small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in the country's economy is increasing many times. Insurance is a reliable tool for protecting entrepreneurs from risks and ensuring the sustainability of their business. The purpose of this article is to study the current problems and prospects for the development of SME insurance in the context of external economic sanctions and market volatility. The object of the study is the SME insurance system in Russia. Scientific work contributes to the theory of insurance, in particular, to substantiate the need for insurance in the development of entrepreneurship and its role for the country's economy. The results of the study can be used to develop measures of state support for SME insurance, as well as to improve insurance products aimed at entrepreneurs.