Abstract
This study aimed to identify the barriers to the
development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in China
and build a theoretical framework to evaluate the supports provided by
the authorities and institutions. A grounded theory approach was
adopted to collect and analyse data. 32 interviews were conducted with
SME managers and open, axial and selective coding were utilised to
develop themes. Based on Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Theory, a
grounded theory model was used to present findings. The findings
showed that the main barriers in the business environment were
financial chain, payment default, limited supply chain and selling
channels, and difficulties in recruiting and retaining talent employees.
This study found that financial, industry, trade and human resource
support were provided. A theoretical framework was developed to
evaluate the performance of the programmes from the managers’
perspective. The concepts of Value for Money and economy,
efficiency, effectiveness and equity were used to evaluate the benefits
and costs of the programmes. This study suggests that specialised
programmes are needed to suit sector-specific requirements and
inclusive packages are helpful to support SMEs' growth.
development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in China
and build a theoretical framework to evaluate the supports provided by
the authorities and institutions. A grounded theory approach was
adopted to collect and analyse data. 32 interviews were conducted with
SME managers and open, axial and selective coding were utilised to
develop themes. Based on Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Theory, a
grounded theory model was used to present findings. The findings
showed that the main barriers in the business environment were
financial chain, payment default, limited supply chain and selling
channels, and difficulties in recruiting and retaining talent employees.
This study found that financial, industry, trade and human resource
support were provided. A theoretical framework was developed to
evaluate the performance of the programmes from the managers’
perspective. The concepts of Value for Money and economy,
efficiency, effectiveness and equity were used to evaluate the benefits
and costs of the programmes. This study suggests that specialised
programmes are needed to suit sector-specific requirements and
inclusive packages are helpful to support SMEs' growth.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 54-61 |
| Number of pages | 8 |
| Journal | World Academy of Science, Engineering and Technology International Journal of Economics and Management Engineering |
| Volume | 19 |
| Issue number | 1 |
| Publication status | Published - 13 Jan 2025 |