Abstract

MAINGEHAMA, Francisca N.. Growth effects of human capital, innovation, and entrepreneurial orientation in South African SMEs post-COVID-19. Acta Commer. [online]. 2025, vol.25, n.1, pp.1-14. ISSN 1684-1999.  https://doi.org/10.4102/ac.v25i1.1357.

ORIENTATION: This article explores the growth dynamics of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa, a unique context within the global landscape, particularly post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) RESEARCH PURPOSE: The study aims to develop and test a theoretical model to explore the relationships among entrepreneurial orientation (EO), human capital, innovation, motivation and firm's growth post-pandemic. MOTIVATION FOR THE STUDY: There is an urgent need to understand the critical factors influencing the growth of SMEs in South Africa, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. RESEARCH DESIGN, APPROACH AND METHOD: A quantitative and cross-sectional survey design was employed. A structured questionnaire was used to gather 497 responses from small firm owner-managers. Data were analysed using Smart PLS (version 3.2.9) for partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). MAIN FINDINGS: Key findings indicate that innovation is a crucial mediator between EO and growth. In contrast, the impact of human capital on growth varies in the post-pandemic context PRACTICAL/MANAGERIAL IMPLICATIONS: The implications emphasise the need for targeted strategies that enhance EO, human capital, innovation and motivation within SMEs, ultimately supporting their growth and resilience after COVID-19. CONTRIBUTION/VALUE-ADD: This study contributes to the literature by offering actionable insights for SMEs and policymakers, underscoring the importance of fostering EO, human capital, innovation and motivation to navigate post-pandemic challenges.

Keywords : human capital; innovation; entrepreneurial orientation; motivation; small firm growth.

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