Entrepreneurial orientation and SMEs’ performance in international markets: do government support initiatives really matter?

Purpose This study examines the influence of government support initiatives on the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation (EO) and the international performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in developing economies. This study aims to clarify how different types of government support can enhance EO’s impact on SMEs’ success in international markets. Design/methodology/approach Using a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from a sample of SMEs in the Caucasus region. Regression analyses and moderation testing were conducted to evaluate the role of government support initiatives − both informational and experiential − in moderating the EO−performance relationship. Findings The findings indicate that experiential support significantly strengthens the EO−performance link, whereas informational support exerts influence primarily as a moderating factor. This highlights the unique value of experiential government interventions for SMEs entering global markets, while informational support enhances EO’s effectiveness when firms actively adopt an entrepreneurial posture. Originality/value This study contributes to the literature by integrating government support into the EO – performance framework for SMEs in emerging economies. It demonstrates that government support, particularly experiential, serves as an external resource enhancing SMEs’ competitiveness abroad.