Supply chain strategic shielding: an IPMA approach to unveiling the serial mediating effects of risk management and resilience in the entrepreneurial orientation-firm performance relationship in Indian manufacturing SMEs

This study aims to study the impact of entrepreneurial orientation (EO) on firm performance (FP), particularly emphasising the mediating role of supply chain resilience (SCR) and supply chain risk management practices (SCRMP) in SMEs through a metaverse perspective. The study utilises the RBV theory and dynamic capability view theory. The data were collected from owners and managers in Indian manufacturing SMEs. The study utilised a non-probability purposive sampling technique. There are 252 samples for the data analysis process. Descriptive data analysis through SPSS, hypothesis testing through Smart PLS (3.0). Employing an importance-performance map (IPMA) approach, we aim to unravel the sequential mediating mechanisms that link EO to FP through SCRMP and SCR. The findings reveal that EO positively influences SCRMP. Furthermore, SCR emerges as a crucial mediator, sequentially transmitting the positive effects of EO through SCRMP to ultimately impact FP. Eventually, this research will help create practical plans to support SMEs' competitiveness and sustainable growth.