Search Results (187)

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are vital drivers of economic growth in Kenya, yet they face persistent barriers, including limited capacity, financial exclusion, and weak market integration. This study assessed the potential of universities as strategic hubs for MSME capacity building through a collaborative initiative between Egerton University and the KCB Foundation. Using the International Labour Organization’s Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) methodology, 481 entrepreneurs from Egerton, Njoro, and Gilgil were trained in a business development bootcamp. This study evaluated the training effectiveness, participant demographics, confidence in skill application, networking outcomes, and satisfaction levels. The results showed high participant confidence (over 95% across all regions), strong financial management uptake (85%), and mobile banking adoption (70%). Gilgil led in inclusivity and peer engagement, while Njoro showed stronger gender representation. However, logistical challenges caused 25% absenteeism in rural areas, and only 23% accessed post-training mentorship. These findings underscore the transformative role of HEIs in fostering sustainable entrepreneurship through localized, inclusive, and industry-aligned training. Policy recommendations include hybrid delivery models, tiered curricula for diverse skill levels, and institutionalized mentorship through public–private partnerships. This case demonstrates the value of embedding entrepreneurship support within university mandates to advance national MSME development agendas. Full article

In the context of accelerating digital transformation and growing sustainability imperatives, entrepreneurial ecosystems increasingly rely on open innovation and strategic collaboration to foster resilient, knowledge-driven growth. This study aims to examine how leadership behaviors and strategic alliances interact as enablers of sustainable innovation across macro (systemic), meso (organizational), and micro (individual) levels. To achieve this, this study employs a literature review, supported by bibliometric analysis, as its core methodological approach. Drawing on 86 influential publications from 1992 to 2024, two major thematic streams emerge: leadership dynamics in entrepreneurial settings and the formation and governance of strategic alliances as vehicles for innovation. The findings underscore the pivotal role of transformational and ethical leadership in cultivating trust-based inter-organizational relationships, facilitating digital knowledge sharing, and catalyzing sustainable value creation. Simultaneously, strategic alliances enhance organizational agility and innovation capacity through co-creation mechanisms, digital platforms, and crowdsourcing, especially in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This paper highlights a mutually reinforcing relationship: effective leadership strategies empower alliances, while alliance participation enhances leadership capabilities through experiential learning in diverse, digitalized environments. By bridging leadership theory, open innovation practices, and digital transformation, this study offers critical insights for entrepreneurs, managers, and policymakers seeking to drive inclusive and sustainable innovation within interconnected global markets. Therefore, this study provides practical guidance for business leaders aiming to strengthen alliance performance through adaptive leadership and for policymakers seeking to foster innovation ecosystems through supportive regulatory and institutional frameworks. Full article

Micro smart factories (MSFs) represent a new way for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to build smart factories. Intelligence and manufacturing are two important dimensions of intelligent manufacturing. However, there is still a gap in the research on the coordinated development of intelligence and manufacturing in MSF. Based on survey data from 93 SMEs in Liaoning Province, a dynamic coupling model of the intelligence dimensions (ID) and manufacturing dimensions (MD) of MSF was constructed. Stock increment was used to simulate the development level of the fusion and dynamically evaluate the degree of coupling coordination. The results show that both ID and MD have different advantages in terms of stock and incremental resources, and that the development of intelligence and manufacturing is imbalanced. In addition, in the transformation process of SMEs, the impact of stock factors is significant and the driving force of incremental factors in intelligent manufacturing is insufficient. Finally, SMEs lack comprehensive planning for the development of intelligent manufacturing processes. Full article

This study examines the application of agentic artificial intelligence (AI) frameworks within small, medium, and micro-enterprises (SMMEs), highlighting how interconnected autonomous agents improve operational efficiency and adaptability. Using the PRISMA 2020 framework, this study systematically identified, screened, and analyzed 66 studies, including peer-reviewed and credible gray literature, published between 2019 and 2024, to assess agentic AI frameworks in SMMEs. Recognizing the constraints faced by SMMEs, such as limited scalability, high operational demands, and restricted access to advanced technologies, the review synthesizes existing research to highlight the characteristics, implementations, and impacts of agentic AI in task automation, decision-making, and ecosystem-wide collaboration. The results demonstrate the potential of agentic AI to address technological, ethical, and infrastructure barriers while promoting innovation, scalability, and competitiveness. This review contributes to the understanding of agentic AI frameworks by offering practical insights and setting the groundwork for further research into their applications in SMMEs’ dynamic and resource-constrained economic environments. Full article

Micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) have the opportunity to increase resource efficiency, decrease waste, and promote sustainability by implementing remanufacturing techniques. However, determining whether MSMEs are prepared for the adoption of such techniques requires a methodical approach that considers several aspects of manufacturing readiness, such as core acquisition, the design of remanufacturing, and others. Therefore, this study proposes a framework to measure the readiness for the adoption of remanufacturing practices. Further, the remanufacturing readiness index (RRI) is proposed by combining remanufacturing indicators with a structural approach based on graph theory and matrices (GTM). Nine remanufacturing readiness attributes are identified through the literature and validated by an expert team. These nine attributes include core acquisition, reverse logistics availability, resource availability for remanufacturing initiatives, the design for remanufacturing, enterprise collaboration, remanufactured product positioning, performance measurement, labor skill and availability, and a flexible remanufacturing system. The finalized remanufacturing readiness attributes are modelled using GTM to explore their interdependencies, forming the basis for a quantitative index (RRI) that reflects MSMEs’ readiness for the adoption of remanufacturing. It is used to measure the possibility of MSMEs implementing remanufacturing processes. To illustrate the efficacy of the RRI, a case study of a remanufacturing facility was conducted. This RRI acts as a decision-support tool to help MSMEs, industry stakeholders, and governments identify priority areas for intervention, promote resource efficiency, and create sustainable growth. The results highlight the importance of readiness attributes as fundamental components in implementing remanufacturing practices at the MSME level. Full article

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) in the traditional-apparel-manufacturing sector is accelerating innovation and transformation, as cutting-edge AI applications have been increasingly integrated into the industry in recent years. While China has made outstanding achievements in applying AI in the apparel-manufacturing sector, the adoption of AI by traditional apparel manufacturers has progressed slowly. This study aims to develop a sustainable triple-layer framework of an AI-enabled innovation ecosystem from grounded required AI capabilities and barriers to AI adoption, thereby generating the conceptual propositions for micro, small, and medium-sized Chinese apparel manufacturing. Through semi-structured interviews conducted with 20 organizations, this study qualitatively analyzes interviews with representatives from enterprises, universities, and apparel associations to determine the required AI capabilities and barriers to adopting AI. It proposes 13 propositions within a theoretical framework that addresses barriers and aligns multi-actor collaborations, ultimately forming a sustainable AI-enabled Triple-Layer Innovation Ecosystem Framework. This novel framework reflects the dynamic interplay between external knowledge absorption capacity and a firm’s internal innovation capacity, providing a theoretical foundation for understanding and advancing AI-driven innovation in the apparel-manufacturing sector. Full article

This study analyzes the current state of artificial intelligence (AI) adoption among micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Ecuador, with a focus on its application across core business functions. Using a stratified random sample of 385 firms from the most representative economic sectors, a survey instrument was designed to assess three dimensions: access to AI-enabling conditions, degree of AI utilization, and organizational characteristics. The results reveal that AI adoption remains limited and highly concentrated in marketing-related functions, particularly in content generation and social media automation, with minimal implementation in finance, logistics, and human resource management. The study also identifies the main barriers hindering AI adoption. The lack of qualified professionals and the unavailability of structured databases emerged as the most critical obstacles, followed by limited financial capacity. One-way ANOVA and Kruskal–Wallis tests confirmed significant differences in AI adoption levels based on company size and sector, especially in areas such as inventory optimization and design prototyping. These findings highlight a gap between the potential of AI technologies and their real-world implementation in Ecuadorian MSMEs. They underscore the need for targeted strategies focused on workforce training, digital infrastructure development, and institutional support to promote broader and more effective AI integration. Full article

Stakeholder fragmentation in transdisciplinary research often impedes innovation in South Africa’s tourism sector. The real-time supply network for MSMEs in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal struggles with digital adoption, limiting its resilience despite rising demand in the digital economy. This study examined how a transdisciplinary approach can enhance the Tourism Supply Chain Network in these regions—an urban hub (Gauteng) and a coastal cultural destination (KwaZulu-Natal)—to unlock their potential. Employing action research, this study engaged stakeholders (tourism operators, tech developers, and communities) to co-create data-driven digital solutions, including a real-time supply network. The collected data included both qualitative insights from workshops and interviews, as well as quantitative metrics such as platform usage and tourist engagement, which were analysed using descriptive statistics. Innovative technologies improved the supply chain efficiency, cutting coordination delays by 25% in Gauteng and boosting rural tourism visibility in KwaZulu-Natal, with a 30% increase in bookings. Gauteng saw urban connectivity gains, while KwaZulu-Natal achieved inclusive growth. This study provides a scalable, data-driven framework for digitalisation in tourism supply networks, offering practical strategies for stakeholders. It advances innovative technologies in emerging markets, emphasising the transformative potential of transdisciplinary collaboration to build resilient, collaborative tourism ecosystems in South Africa. Full article

This study aims to analyze the influence of entrepreneurial marketing, internet marketing, market orientation, and social entrepreneurship orientation on business sustainability, marketing performance, and competitiveness. A total of 235 micro-, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Jabodetabek and Sukabumi were successfully processed with SmartPLS 3 software to be analyzed using the SEM-PLS two-stage embedded approach. In micro-enterprises (MEs), the results of the analysis show that the variables of internet marketing, market orientation, and social entrepreneurship orientation have a significant positive effect on social aspects. Meanwhile, entrepreneurial marketing has a significant positive effect on environmental aspects. Furthermore, only two aspects of sustainability (economic and social aspects) have a positive effect on competitiveness and marketing performance. In another case with small and medium enterprises (SMEs), the results of the analysis show that variable market orientation has a positive effect on economic aspects and a negative effect on social aspects. While the social entrepreneurship orientation variable has a positive effect on social aspects, it has a negative effect on economic aspects. Furthermore, the economic aspects of SMEs have a positive effect on competitiveness and marketing performance. Environmental aspects have a positive effect on competitiveness, and social aspects affect marketing performance. Finally, competitiveness variables affect the marketing performance of SMEs. In general, it is necessary for the government to differentiate between MEs and SMEs because they have different business capabilities. MEs need a more social approach, while SMEs need a more economic approach in order to support their sustainability aspects. Full article

Mobile payment systems have rapidly expanded globally, especially in developing countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Technological advances, public acceptance, and increased adoption during the COVID-19 pandemic drive this growth. Mobile payments involve key stakeholders: technology providers, end-users, government regulators, and merchants, each contributing to the adoption ecosystem. Users prefer mobile payments for their speed and convenience over traditional cash transactions. This study explores the driver and barrier factors influencing mobile payment QR adoption among merchants, particularly from the MSME perspective, using existing frameworks based on previous research adapted to MSME conditions. Conducted in Indonesia with 418 MSME business respondents, this study employs a quantitative, cross-sectional methodology with a 95% confidence level and an SEM analysis. The findings reveal that perceived ease of use does not significantly impact perceived experience, while perceived usefulness does. Perceived risk, convenience, experience, and word-of-mouth learning statistically significantly influence merchants’ intention to use mobile payments. However, customer engagement, cost, trust, and complexity appear less influential. Overall, this research advances understanding of the key factors affecting merchants’ adoption of mobile payment and provides insights relevant to MSME economic growth. Full article

This research investigates the factors influencing the adoption of cross-border e-commerce (CBEC) among manufacturing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Thailand by integrating the Diffusion of Innovation (DOI), Resource-Based View (RBV), and Technology–Organization–Environment (TOE) frameworks with the Fuzzy Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method. The findings reveal that knowledge of e-commerce, international marketing capabilities, and security and risk concerns are primary drivers of CBEC adoption, while socio-cultural factors and cost-related issues are secondary enablers. This study contributes to the e-commerce adoption literature by developing a context-specific, integrated conceptual framework and empirically validating the causal interrelationships among technological, organizational, and environmental factors in CBEC adoption using Fuzzy DEMATEL. The results provide actionable insights for both MSMEs and policymakers to strengthen Thailand’s participation in the digital economy and advance Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8 and 17. Full article

The scientific literature and practice have demonstrated that the old linear economic model “extract—produce—use and throw away” is no longer sustainable due to the enormous accumulation of waste and the related production of CO₂. Consequently, there is a need to adopt more sustainable development systems that include recycling resources and producing goods derived from recycled material. The examined literature highlights that SMEs are the least likely to make technological or paradigm changes in favor of sustainable choices due to a lack of resources and managerial competencies. This study presents a mixed-method approach based on qualitative and quantitative analyses. The qualitative analysis aims to identify, in the Italian context, measures that encourage companies to reduce the use of plastics in favor of sustainable alternatives. The quantitative analysis, based on secondary data, aims to identify the characteristics of the firms that benefited from the aid identified in the previous analysis. Thus, this study may support corporate environmental sustainability strategies in Italy by identifying specific characteristics and profiles of those companies willing to obtain public incentives for the use of recycled materials in their business and production processes. The results show that small and micro-sized companies obtained most of the analyzed incentives (almost 76% in terms of number of applications), and the most affected areas by these measures are the agriculture and food industries. Therefore, economic incentives can improve sustainable performance for small and micro-sized enterprises in the wide agri-food sector, while the legislator must adopt different tools, such as bans, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and sustainability reports for medium-large sized companies of other crucial industrial sectors such as construction and automotives. Full article

This study explores the adoption of data-driven approaches to business process management (BPM) by micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which are crucial for economic growth and job creation but often face challenges in adopting advanced technologies. The research aims to understand the perceived benefits and persistent barriers that MSMEs encounter when implementing data-driven BPM. A critical review of academic literature was conducted, focusing on factors influencing adoption, perceived benefits, and existing challenges. Literature consistently highlights benefits such as process optimization, informed decision making, customer personalization, operational efficiency, adaptability, risk mitigation, automation, organizational culture transformation, innovation, and transparency. However, the review also identifies significant challenges, including technological and infrastructural limitations, resource constraints, training and skill gaps, organizational and cultural resistance, data management and quality issues, difficulties in implementation and change management, and analytical and technical complexities. These findings emphasize that, while data-driven BPM offers substantial opportunities for MSMEs to improve competitiveness and efficiency, successful adoption requires careful consideration of these multifaceted challenges and the development of tailored strategies to overcome them. Full article

Risk-taking is a critical driver of sustainable development and financial performance for firms, especially under environmental degradation constraints. Despite the increasing implementation of green credit policies, their impact on corporate risk-taking remains underexplored in the existing literature. This study investigates the effects and underlying mechanisms of green credit policies on risk-taking behaviors among Chinese listed companies from 2009 to 2019. Utilizing econometric methodologies, including Difference-in-Differences, mediation analysis, and moderation analysis, the findings reveal that green credit policies significantly enhance the risk-taking activities of polluting enterprises. These results are robust across various sensitivity tests. Additionally, the relationship between green credit policies and corporate risk-taking is mediated by debt maturity mismatch and moderated by ESG and executive compensation. Subgroup analyses indicate that large and state-owned polluting enterprises experience greater increases in risk-taking compared to their small, medium-sized, and private counterparts. Furthermore, executive remuneration notably amplifies risk-taking in private firms. This research provides essential micro-level insights to optimize the effectiveness of green credit policies in promoting corporate risk-taking and advancing sustainable development. Full article

In the context of global climate change, carbon emission trading (CET) has become a critical tool for driving urban green economic transformation. Since 2011, China has launched CET pilot programs, supporting the achievement of the “dual carbon” goals. Studying the relationship between CET and urban green economic efficiency is essential for advancing urban green economic transitions. However, the existing research is limited by its single-perspective approach, insufficient exploration of mechanisms, and weak heterogeneity analysis, which restricts a comprehensivethe comprehensiveness of our understanding of policy effects. To address these gaps, this study is the first to integrate macro-regional data with micro-enterprise behavior, evaluating the impact of CET on urban green economic efficiency from a dual macro–micro perspective, thereby filling the research void in macro–micro data integration. At the macro level, this study employs panel data from 281 Chinese cities spanning 2007 to 2020, using fixed-effects and difference-in-differences (DID) models to assess the impact of CET on urban green economic efficiency. At the micro level, a game-theoretic pricing decision model is constructed to reveal behavioral differences among enterprises in complete and incomplete information markets and their indirect effects on green economic efficiency. The findings indicate that CET significantly enhances urban green economic efficiency, with technological innovation, green finance, and industrial structural upgrading serving as mediating mechanisms. Heterogeneity analysis shows that the effects are more pronounced in eastern, non-resource-based, small-to-medium-sized, and non-old industrial cities. The game-theoretic model further demonstrates that enterprises in complete information markets more effectively indirectly enhance green economic efficiency through CET mechanisms. By combining macro and micro perspectives, this study provides a new theoretical framework and practical insights for understanding the policy effects of CET. However, limitations such as data confined to Chinese pilots and model simplifications remain. Future research should expand data dimensions, allowing researchers to more comprehensively evaluate policy outcomes. Full article