مطالب

The objective of this study was to examine the relationships between entrepreneurial self-efficacy, technological capability, and innovation capability among startup leaders. Specifically, the study aimed to determine the extent to which technological and innovation capabilities predict entrepreneurial self-efficacy, providing insights into the factors that drive entrepreneurial success in startup environments. A cross-sectional research design was employed, involving 290 startup leaders selected based on the sample size recommendations from the Morgan and Krejcie table. Participants completed a structured questionnaire assessing entrepreneurial self-efficacy, technological capability, and innovation capability. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple linear regression using SPSS version 27. Assumptions of linearity, normality, and homoscedasticity were checked and confirmed to ensure the validity of the regression model. Pearson correlation analysis showed significant positive relationships between entrepreneurial self-efficacy and both technological capability (r = 0.52, p < 0.001) and innovation capability (r = 0.56, p < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that technological capability (B = 0.37, SE = 0.08, β = 0.30, t = 4.63, p < 0.001) and innovation capability (B = 0.45, SE = 0.09, β = 0.35, t = 5.14, p < 0.001) were significant predictors of entrepreneurial self-efficacy, explaining 40% of its variance (R^2 = 0.40, F(2, 287) = 46.83, p < 0.001). The study concludes that both technological capability and innovation capability significantly enhance entrepreneurial self-efficacy among startup leaders. These findings underscore the importance of fostering these capabilities to drive entrepreneurial success. The study contributes to the literature by highlighting the critical role of self-efficacy and providing practical implications for entrepreneurs, policymakers, and educators aiming to support entrepreneurial development.

This study aims to explore the adoption and implementation of emerging technologies in Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). By understanding the motivations, challenges, benefits, and future plans of SME founders, this research provides insights into how these businesses leverage technology to enhance their competitiveness and operational efficiency. The study employed a qualitative research design, utilizing semi-structured interviews with 25 founders of SMEs across various industries. Participants were selected using purposive sampling to ensure diverse representation. Data collection continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. The interview data were transcribed and analyzed using NVivo software, following a thematic approach to identify key themes and insights related to technology adoption and implementation in SMEs. The study identified several motivations for technology adoption, including competitive advantage, cost efficiency, customer demand, innovation drive, and growth opportunities. Key challenges faced by SMEs included financial constraints, technical difficulties, resistance to change, regulatory and compliance issues, knowledge gaps, vendor dependence, and time constraints. The benefits realized from technology adoption encompassed improved operational efficiency, enhanced customer satisfaction, revenue growth, better data analytics, increased employee productivity, and greater market adaptability. Future plans of SMEs included continued investment in technology, scaling up implementation, focusing on employee training and development, forming strategic partnerships, enhancing cybersecurity measures, and improving customer engagement. The adoption and implementation of emerging technologies present significant opportunities for SMEs to enhance their competitiveness and operational efficiency. However, SMEs must navigate various challenges to realize these benefits. By adopting a strategic approach and leveraging external partnerships, SMEs can successfully implement new technologies and drive sustainable growth. This study provides valuable insights into the experiences of SME founders, informing both practice and policy in the context of technological advancement in small and medium-sized enterprises.