Framework for recycling entrepreneurial talent to sustain SMMEs in Botswana

Background: Research that interrogates entrepreneurial talent recycling (ETR) is lacking; hence, limited information exists in this regard. Despite the progress made in developing policies and advancing entrepreneurship, the transfer of enterprising expertise within the entrepreneurial context remains a neglected topic. Aim: This study sought to create a framework for ETR that ensures the sustainability of small, medium and microenterprises (SMMEs). The research question of the study was: What framework can be developed for ETR to be utilised for the sustainability of Botswana’s SMMEs? Setting: The empirical study was conducted among recycled entrepreneurs operating in SMMEs in Botswana. Methods: The research examined participants’ live entrepreneurial experiences through an inductive method and qualitative descriptive design. Snowball sampling was used to interview 12 recycled entrepreneurs in Botswana. Results: The developed framework demonstrated how SMMEs can achieve sustainability by employing sustainability measures, leveraging ecosystem actors and resources and making entrepreneurial decisions. The measures for sustainability included customer service, social sustainability, operational skills, personal resilience and economic sustainability. The study showed that entrepreneurs, policymakers, corporate leaders and educators need to heed the advice of recycled entrepreneurs to preserve SMMEs. Conclusion: This article presents a framework for sustainable SMMEs in emerging nations and may guide their operations as well as economic and educational policies. Contribution: The article presents new literature on ETR, identifies measures for SMME sustainability in a developing economy and suggests a framework for ETR that ensures the sustainability of SMMEs.