Determinants of SMEs’ participation in the public higher learning institutions procurement in Tanzania: The case of the University of Dar es salaam

This study assessed determinants of SMEs participation in public higher learning institutions (HLI) procurement n Tanzania. The study employed explanatory design to articulate the relationship between independent variables and a dependent variable. Primary data for the study was collected through structured questionnaires and computed in SPSS program for analysis. Descriptive statistics specifically percentages and frequency distribution tables were generated to show the profile of the respondents, whereas correction and multiple regression analysis were conducted to capture the relationships between the independent and dependent variables. the study found that two independent variables, namely financial capability and timely delivery were positive and statistically significant on SMEs participation in public higher learning institutions procurement. On the other hand, adequacy of human capital was found to be positive but insignificant on SMEs participation in public higher learning institutions procurement. This implies that SMEs’ participation in procurement in public higher learning entities is statistically influenced by financial capability and timely delivery. The study recommends that it is high time for the government to foster sufficient enabling environment for the enterprises to engage in such large ventures including engaging in procurement activities in higher learning entities. This could be done by capacity building for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).