From intentions to impact: How entrepreneurial orientation and managerial expertise drive SME performance among Ghanaian Nation Builders Corps (NABCO) beneficiaries

This study investigates the role of Managerial Expertise (MANE) as a moderator between Entrepreneurial Orientation (EO) and SME performance, using a sample of Nation Builders Corps (NABCO) beneficiaries in Ghana. The study collected data via a structured questionnaire and employed the PLS-SEM and stepwise regression to test the hypotheses. The findings reveal that innovative and proactive orientations positively influence SME performance, while risk-taking unexpectedly has a negative impact. This negative relationship suggests that high risk-taking may undermine performance among NABCO beneficiaries, who may lack sufficient resources and experience to manage the associated risks effectively. Additionally, MANE significantly moderates all dimensions of EO, enhancing resource allocation and firm success. Beyond EO traits, MANE is essential for SME growth, particularly in navigating risk-taking. These findings provide contextual evidence on the EO-MANE-performance nexus in a resource-constrained emerging economy setting. Future efforts can build on these insights to further improve managerial capacity development programs and offer guidance for SMEs seeking to enhance performance through managerial development.