TOURISM ENTREPRENEUIRAL PRACTICES AND ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT OF SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTEPRISES CRAFT-MAKERS IN DELTA STATE, NIGERIA

This study investigated the relationship between tourism entrepreneurial practices and economic empowerment of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Delta State Nigeria. It adopted the survey design method; with the population comprising providers of tourism SMEs in the State. A sample of 209 entrepreneurs was drawn from this population using the cluster sampling technique. Primary data was obtained through the administration of a questionnaire measured on a four point Likert Scale. Pearson Product Moment Correlation (r) coefficient was used for testing the postulated hypotheses. The findings revealed that the dimensions of entrepreneurial practices had positive and significant relationship with economic empowerment measures. The study concluded that there is need for operators of SMEs to be entrepreneurial so as to enable them achieve success in the competitive business environment. Following the conclusion, it was recommended that SMEs within the craft-making tourism sector in the state should take calculated risks in order to enhance and improve their production abilities. They should anticipate future needs and wants of tourists in order to accommodate growing patronage.They should also develop more entrepreneurial skills and competencies as this will help them adapt to the changing environment.