The Impact of Entrepreneurial Competence on the Success of Small and Medium Sized Businesses with Emphasis on the Mediating Role of Information Technology Competencies

In recent years, entrepreneurship has undergone significant changes, as both entrepreneurial competencies (ENC) and information technology competencies (ITC) have become increasingly crucial for achieving small and medium sized businesses. This study seeks to explore the relationship between ENC and small and medium sized businesses, emphasising ITC's mediating function. The study used a qualitative approach, collecting data from small and medium sized businesses in Guilan province located in northern Iran through a questionnaire. Convenience sampling was used, and 209 valid replies were obtained between March 15 and May 25, 2024. Data analysis was done through SPSS and Smart PL. The study's results showed that ENC has a positive relationship with both small and medium sized businesses and ITC. Additionally, ITC played a mediating role between small and medium sized businesses and ENC. These findings highlighted how important it is to integrate ITC and ENC to meet small and medium sized businesses goals. This study, undertaken on small and medium sized businesses in the Guilan province, located in northern Iran might be less relevant to more significant geographic regions. Findings might help in formulating plans to boost small and medium sized businesses performance and economic growth.