Encouraging SMEs performance through entrepreneurial intentions, competencies, and leadership: serial mediation model

Purpose The study aims to investigate the effect of entrepreneurial leadership (EL), competencies (ECs) and intentions (EIs) on enterprise performance (EP) via entrepreneurial resilience (ER) and risk-taking propensity (RTP). Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from 403 early-stage small and medium enterprise (SME) owners in Pakistan at two-time intervals and were analyzed using AMOS 22. Findings All predictors (i.e. EIs, EL and ECs) positively affected EP and ER, except for EL and ER. Furthermore, RTP and ER were serially mediated in linking EIs and ECs with EP but could not establish a link between EL and EP. Research limitations/implications The findings reveal that the Pakistani government and business owners must focus on SMEs’ sustained development and prioritize ECs. Originality/value This paper is unique in nature, as understanding EIs, EL and ECs in a holistic framework has never been tested before in relation to EP.