Examining how digital transformation and responsible leadership affect green innovation in SMEs: a moderated and mediation model

Purpose This study focuses on the influence of digital transformation and responsible leadership on green innovation by examining the mediating role of knowledge sharing and the moderating role of organizational culture in SMEs. Design/methodology/approach A total of 379 responses were collected using a questionnaire survey from hierarchical levels of SMEs employees, and the PROCESS application was employed to evaluate the hypothesized relationships. Findings Results indicate that knowledge sharing partially mediates the influence of digital transformation and responsible leadership on green innovation in SMEs. Furthermore, organizational culture does not moderate the influence of knowledge sharing on green innovation. Practical implications This study offers valuable insights for managers to enhance the values of digital transformation and responsible leadership in SMEs to promote green innovation. Originality/value This research contributes to existing literature by consolidating digital transformation and responsible leadership to create green innovation in SMEs with the efficacy of resource-based view (RBV) – thereby contributing to a novel area of SMEs literature.