Organizational Integration, Knowledge Management, and Sustainable Entrepreneurship for SMEs in Developing Economies

Abstract

Abstract This study underscores the indispensable role of knowledge management (KM) in promoting sustainable entrepreneurship (SE) among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in developing economies. SMEs, being the backbone of various facets of society, including employment rates, gross domestic product growth, innovation, social cohesion, economic development, growth, and public policies, should be considered. SE is a pressing issue for low- and high-income countries and developed and developing economies. The study utilized a self-administered questionnaire to gather data from 490 SMEs operating in different commercial regions and industries, providing a large-scale empirical study that fills gaps in the existing literature. The study highlights the significance of KM processes in facilitating organizational integration (OI) activities, which positively influence the SE practices of these SMEs. The research offers practical recommendations for SMEs to foster SE through effective KM practices and OI strategies. Moreover, the study provides valuable insights for future research in this area. The findings of this study have substantial implications for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers seeking to enhance the entrepreneurial landscape in developing economies.