The Role of Entrepreneurial Leadership Capability in the Business Growth of Owner-managed Small and Medium Enterprises in Zimbabwe

Abstract

The study critically explores the role of Entrepreneurial Leadership (EL) capability in stimulating growth in owner-managed small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Zimbabwe. The study was carried out among 20 owner-managed SMEs across varied sectors using the qualitative methodological research design. The study findings reveal that ELplays a critical role in business growth, stability and performance by bringing in adaptive resilience, innovation and creativity, strategic networking and crisis management techniques. The study is very useful to SME owner-managers as it unpacks strategies and characteristics within EL capability to cater for solid empowerment necessary for achieving sustainable growth in the face of challenges. The study further contributes to the broader understanding of critical modern-day business leadership which is key in leading owner-managed SMEs businesses operating in emerging and developing economies by offering practical insights that enable them to thrive and grow their businesses into fully fledged firms under challenging environments by implementing the EL capability style.