Enhancing performance of agri-business through sustainable project management and technological orientation: institutional theory perspective

Purpose The agribusiness sector faces mounting pressure due to a persistently challenging business environment, rapidly increasing population and rising food demand. Drawing on institutional theory, this study aims to explore the role of sustainable project management in enhancing the short- and long-term performance of agri-business projects, with a particular focus on technological orientation as an alternative to traditional approaches. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative research design was employed using a questionnaire survey, with data collected from 342 project managers engaged in agri-business infrastructure projects. Findings The findings confirm that sustainable project management has both direct and indirect positive effects on project performance through technological orientation. These results highlight the critical need for agriculture managers to integrate advanced technologies alongside sustainable project management practices across all project phases – from planning to completion – to effectively address current and future agricultural demands in the context of rapid population growth. Originality/value This study was the first of its kind to examine how the short- and long-run performance of agricultural business projects can be enhanced through sustainable project management and technological orientation to meet the demands of foods.