The mediating role of innovation capabilities in the relationship between organizational learning and performance: Evidence from moroccan SMEs

The relationship between organizational learning, innovation capability, and performance has been extensively explored in academic research. However, few studies have examined the specific mediating role of product and managerial innovation capabilities in the link between learning orientation and SME performance. Moreover, none of these studies have been conducted in the context of Moroccan SMEs. Therefore, this study aims to enrich existing literature by providing theoretical and empirical insights into the mechanisms of interaction among the variables in question in a different context, such as that of Morocco. To achieve this, a quantitative survey was conducted using a questionnaire distributed to 96 managers of Moroccan SMEs operating in various sectors, to collect representative and diverse data. Subsequently, an analysis through structural equation modeling using partial least squares (PLS-SEM) was performed to test the research hypotheses and evaluate the complex relationships between the variables studied. The results revealed a positive and direct impact of learning orientation on the performance of Moroccan SMEs, indicating that companies fostering a learning culture tend to achieve better performance. Furthermore, the study confirmed that both product and managerial innovation capabilities play a partial and distinct mediating role in this relationship. They strengthen the effect of learning orientation on SME performance, albeit in a differentiated manner. These findings highlight significant theoretical and practical implications. Theoretically, the study enriches the discourse on the interaction between organizational learning and innovation by providing empirical evidence of how these elements interact to influence SME performance. Practically, the conclusions underscore the importance for SMEs to develop both product and managerial innovation capabilities to maximize the benefits of their learning orientation. Promoting a culture focused on learning and innovation thus emerges as a key strategy to enhance SME competitiveness and performance.