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Do tangible resources lead to business growth among SMEs?

Author

Listed:
  • Philani Khumalo

    (Durban University of Technology)

  • Nelisiwe Mary-anne Mchunu

    (Durban University of Technology)

Abstract

The globalized and technologically advanced business environment presents significant challenges to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which play a critical role in national economic growth and innovation. These challenges include strategic orientation, effective resource allocation, and adapting to changing markets, often resulting in premature business failure. Therefore, the paper reviews recent literature on how tangible resources such as financial capital, physical assets, and technology influence SME growth, focusing on studies from the past decade that apply frameworks like the Resource-Based View. A systematic literature review was conducted, involving a comprehensive search of academic databases. Thematic analysis was applied to synthesize the findings on resource impact and management in SMEs. The review revealed that financial capital, physical assets, and technological infrastructure significantly influence SME growth. However, the extent of impact varies across contexts, depending on managerial capabilities, access to finance, and market conditions. Addressing this gap, the article aims to inform both theory and practice on SME sustainability and development and suggests avenues for future research. Key Words: Tangible resources, business growth, Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), eThekwini Municipality, resource management, financial capital, physical assets, technological infrastructure, SME development, economic growth, contextual factors, Sustainability

Suggested Citation

  • Philani Khumalo & Nelisiwe Mary-anne Mchunu, 2026. "Do tangible resources lead to business growth among SMEs?," International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy (2687-2293), Bussecon International Academy, vol. 8(1), pages 244-252, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:adi:ijbess:v:8:y:2026:i:1:p:244-252
    DOI: 10.36096/ijbes.v8i1.1113
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Belinda Rathogwa & Jabulile Msimango-Galawe, 2023. "The role of growth aspirations in SMME financing decisions," Cogent Business & Management, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 10(1), pages 2196040-219, December.
    2. Michael Agyekum Addo & Isaac Mensah, 2023. "Envy and jealousy in entrepreneurial activities: existence and nature, causes, effects and management," Journal of Global Entrepreneurship Research, Springer;UNESCO Chair in Entrepreneurship, vol. 13(1), pages 1-20, December.
    3. Roberto Vivona, 2024. "The new era leadership for the public sector? Entrepreneurship, effectiveness, and democracy," Public Management Review, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 26(6), pages 1566-1582, June.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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