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The Intersection of Business Models and SME Performance: A Bibliometric Analysis of Research Trends

Author

Listed:
  • Mpilwenhle Nomvuyo Ndlovu

    (Centre for Entrepreneurship Development, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria 0183, South Africa)

  • Elona Nobukhosi Ndlovu

    (SK Research, Oxford Business College, Oxford OX1 2EP, UK)

  • Patrick Ebong Ebewo

    (Centre for Entrepreneurship Development, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria 0183, South Africa)

Abstract

This study presents a systematic bibliometric analysis to identify trends and gaps in research on SME business models and SME performance, following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. A comprehensive search of the Scopus database (1957–2025) identified 85,494 initial records. After removing duplicates and applying screening criteria, 307 studies were included, with only 22 specifically focused on SME performance. The PRISMA flow diagram illustrates the study selection process. The findings reveal three key research themes: digitalisation, business model innovation, and sustainability. The study contributes to the literature by providing a structured bibliometric analysis of SME business model research, highlighting geographic disparities, theoretical gaps, and underexplored areas, such as the role of institutional factors in SME performance. This imbalance highlights the need for broader geographical representation in future studies. This study emphasises the importance of further research on adaptive and resilient SME business models, particularly in emerging markets. It also recommends greater collaboration across disciplines to advance theoretical and practical insights in this field. By applying a systematic approach, this study provides a structured overview of the current literature and identifies areas requiring further investigation.

Suggested Citation

  • Mpilwenhle Nomvuyo Ndlovu & Elona Nobukhosi Ndlovu & Patrick Ebong Ebewo, 2025. "The Intersection of Business Models and SME Performance: A Bibliometric Analysis of Research Trends," Administrative Sciences, MDPI, vol. 15(4), pages 1-26, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jadmsc:v:15:y:2025:i:4:p:143-:d:1635671
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Ana León-Gómez & José Manuel Santos-Jaén & Daniel Ruiz-Palomo & Mercedes Palacios-Manzano, 2022. "Disentangling the impact of ICT adoption on SMEs performance: the mediating roles of corporate social responsibility and innovation," Oeconomia Copernicana, Institute of Economic Research, vol. 13(3), pages 831-866, September.
    2. Oğuzhan Öztürk & Rıdvan Kocaman & Dominik K. Kanbach, 2024. "How to design bibliometric research: an overview and a framework proposal," Review of Managerial Science, Springer, vol. 18(11), pages 3333-3361, November.
    3. Yan Jingwen & Azmawani Abd Rahman & Tong Tong & Nitty Hirawaty Kamarulzaman & Shafie Bin Sidek, 2025. "A study of Chinese enterprises’ business models to determine the impact of dynamic capabilities on innovation and performance," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 20(1), pages 1-30, January.
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