Examining the moderating effect of entrepreneurs� demographic characteristics on strategic entrepreneurial orientations and competitiveness of SMEs

The focus of this study was to examine the moderating effects of entrepreneurs� demographic characteristics on strategic entrepreneurial orientation and competitiveness of SMEs. The theoretical underpinning of the study was based on existing literature to reflect the moderating effects of entrepreneurs� demographic characteristics on strategic entrepreneurial orientation and competitiveness of SMEs. The study adopted quantitative approach with a descriptive research design to describe the moderating effects of entrepreneurs� demographic characteristics on the relationship between strategic entrepreneurial orientation and competitiveness of SMEs based on the objective of the study. Data was gathered from 159 owners/managers of micro, small and medium agro-based firms that were randomly selected and surveyed through the use of structured questionnaire. Hierarchical multiple regression was adopted in analysing the research instrument. The findings from the statistical analysis suggest that analysis, future oriented strategies, proactive initiatives, risk-taking attitudes, defensive strategies over their niche and ensuring integration of their various functional units are significant strategic entrepreneurial orientations that enhance SMEs competitiveness. © 2018, Allied Business Academies. All rights reserved

INDUSTRIAL CLUSTERING AND PERFORMANCE OF TECHNOLOGY-BASED SMES IN NIGERIA: DOES FIRM AGE AND SIZE HAVE ANY INFLUENCE?

This research focused on examining the relationship between industrial clustering and performance of technology-based SMEs in Nigeria, and to identify the moderating role of firm age and size on this relationship. A sample size of 65 owners/managers of technology-based small and medium enterprises were surveyed through the use of structured questionnaire. Hierarchical multiple regression were adopted in analysing the research instrument. Based on the findings from the statistical analysis, this research concludes that there is a direct relationship between industrial clustering and the performance of SMEs in Nigeria. The study also asserts that firm age is a critical influencer of the relationship between industrial clustering and performance of SMEs. Consequently, it is recommended that SME operators in Nigeria should leverage on industrial clustering as a means of enhancing their performance levels. More so, owners/managers of SMEs, bearing in mind the age categorization of their organizations should form industrial clusters in ways that help younger firms share from the experiences of older firms to enhance their performance. Key words: Entrepreneurship, Industrial Clustering, Innovation, Firm Age, Firm Size, Technology-based SMEs performanc