Entrepreneurial Support and Its Impact on SME Performance: case of entrepreneurs supported by the Sfax-Innovation 2 Business incubator

Against a backdrop of economic globalization and constant change in the business environment, Tunisian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face a number of challenges, both structural and cyclical. Faced with increased competition, growing competitiveness requirements and limited resources, these companies need to rely on effective support mechanisms to ensure their development and sustainability. This article looks at the impact of entrepreneurial support on the performance of Tunisian SMEs, based on a qualitative study of eighteen entrepreneurs supported by the “Sfax-Innovation 2” business incubator. The aim is to examine the extent to which support schemes help to strengthen the ability of SMEs to improve their economic, organizational and strategic performance. The thematic analysis of the semi-structured interviews reveals two essential levers of this support: integration into support networks, on the one hand, and facilitating access to financial resources, on the other. These two dimensions appear to be decisive factors in structuring entrepreneurial projects, expanding business opportunities, professionalizing approaches and mobilizing appropriate financing. The results confirm that entrepreneurial support is a strategic lever, contributing to the development of project leaders' skills and the sustainability of their businesses. Drawing on this empirical data, this study enriches the debate on the role of support structures in developing countries, while proposing operational recommendations for public decision-makers, support institutions and economic development players.