Entrepreneurial Orientation, Technology Orientation and Small and Medium Enterprises Performance in Nigeria: Role of Government Support Policies

Abstract

Purpose: The study empirically analyzes the moderating role of government support policy on the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation, technology orientation, and performance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in northeast Nigeria. Design/Methodology/Approach: The paper adopts quantitative survey method using structured questionnaires, data were collected from 240 SME owner-managers in northeast Nigeria. The data collected was analyzed using Partial Least Squares PLS-SEM. Findings: The findings of the study indicate a significant positive relationship between EO, TO and Performance of SMEs. Additionally, the outcomes of the study authenticate that government support policy moderates the relationship between EO, TO and performance of SMEs in Nigeria. Implications/Originality/Value: The study has practical implication for the government, policy makers, regulators, SMEs owner-managers and other stakeholders to recognize government support as it affects SMEs performance. The study further adds to the frontier of knowledge on the importance of GSPs in strengthening the relationship between the variables and SMEs performance. This is the first study that focuses on testing the moderating role of government support policy on the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation, technology orientation and SMEs performance in Nigeria,