Determinants and institutions affecting post-conflict firm growth in Marawi City, Philippines: a qualitative analysis by business experience and firm age

This study investigates the determinants of post-conflict firm growth in Marawi City, Philippines and the contributing effect of institutional factors, business experience and firm age. Using a qualitative research design, data was collected through personal interviews with 24 firm owners, resulting into 4 typologies that are applicable to similar post-conflict contexts globally and based on the entrepreneur’s business experience (novice or serial) and firm age (new or established). The analysis reveals distinct growth patterns: new novice entrepreneurs struggle with resource acquisition, whereas established serial entrepreneurs leverage their experience and networks for sustained growth. Conversely, new serial entrepreneurs demonstrate agility in adapting to changing markets, while established novice entrepreneurs often face stagnant growth due to limited strategic foresight. This study contributes to post-conflict literature by highlighting the compelling interaction between business experience and firm age, and providing an explanation on how these factors affect the growth of firms in a post-conflict setting. It also offers an explanation on how this interaction results into a bundle of determinants and institutions that are relevant to each typology, allowing a deeper insight on the needs of every group of entrepreneurs. The study also underscores the importance of understanding the local institutional environment to guide policymakers in developing cost-effective strategies that are tailor-fit to the entrepreneurs and can aid in economic recovery.