The effect of business networks on small and medium enterprises growth a case of Enablis

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Date
2015
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Dar es Salaam
Abstract
The main objective of the study was to determine the effect of business networks to the growth of small and medium enterprises. The conceptual framework was formulated and tested through a survey of 120 entrepreneurs who were members to Enablis Network for more than two years from Arusha and Dar es Salaam. Five specific objectives were established based on customer and sales increases, cost reduction, formalization of business and the increases on employment after joining the business network. In testing relationship of variables chi-square ( ) tests showed stronglyrelated at the level of 0.000 to all with values being greater than the critical values at the significance of 5% ie p . With the compliment of qualitative data from the surveyed respondents, the study determined that business networks have positive contribution on customer increases, cost reduction, business formalization, sales and employment increase. The growth that was realized on the tested indicators found to have significantly contributed by trust and mutual supports through formalized networking among members. Moreover, business networks were found to be the platform where entrepreneurs exchange experiences, skills, knowledge’s among individuals in the groups. Based on the findings of this research policy makers, entrepreneurs, business development service providers and other stakeholders are advised to formulate strategies and policies that will entrepreneurs to develop and to join business networks for economic growth.
Description
Available in print form, East Africana Collection, Dr. Wilbert Chagula Library, Class mark (THS EAF HD2346.N92)
Keywords
Small business, Business networks, Kyela district
Citation
Nyakujanga, S.Y (2015) The effect of business networks on small and medium enterprises growth a case of Enablis, Master dissertation, University of Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam