FINANCIAL STRATEGIES AND SME PERFORMANCE: INSIGHTS FROM KEBBI STATE'S ENTREPRENEURIAL SECTOR

This study examined the effect of entrepreneurial financing options on the performance of SMEs in Kebbi State, Nigeria. Utilizing a survey research design, with population of 1,927 out of which sample size of 331 registered SMEs determined using Taro Yamane formular and convenience sampling technique was used to select respondents. Data were collected through adapted questionnaire and analyzed using Partial least square structural equation modeling was employed to analyze the data collected. The study found that co-operative societies have positive and significant effect on SMEs performance in Kebbi State. While, commercial bank loans and government grants have positive but insignificant effect on SMEs performance Kebbi State. The study concludes that entrepreneurial financing options influence SMEs performance. The study recommends among others that SMEs operators in Kebbi State should improve on their financial management skills, including record-keeping, budgeting, and financial planning, to demonstrate their creditworthiness and effectively utilize commercial bank loans.