Sources of business information among SMEs in Tanzania

The aim of this study was to find out the sources of business information among SMEs. Survey was used to collect data from 100 SMEs respondents. Data were analysed using factor reduction and descriptive. Findings show that SMEs get information from six major sources which are public notice boards, discussion with colleagues and customers (interpersonal), brochures and posters, website/internet, newsletters and through mobile phones. Furthermore SMEs requires information about finance, laws (regulations) and taxation and business security. A number of challenges of accessing information were identified which include among other, costs, time, availability, accessibility and lack of the knowledge about the sources. The study recommends that proper mechanism be established to ensure that, SMEs get the required information in a quality manner as well as addressing the critical challenges that impedes accessibility of the required information.