How do we conceptualise the entrepreneurial capacity building (ECB) of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMES) in the least-developed countries (LDCS), particularly in Laos?
Date
2012Citation:
Xaythanith, K. (2012). How do we conceptualise the entrepreneurial capacity building (ECB) of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMES) in the least-developed countries (LDCS), particularly in Laos? (Unpublished document submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Business). Unitec Institute of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand. Retrieved from https://hdl.handle.net/10652/2011Permanent link to Research Bank record:
https://hdl.handle.net/10652/2011Abstract
The aim of this study is to explore and conceptualise the entrepreneurial behaviour and entrepreneurial capacity building (ECB) of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the least-developed countries (LDCs). The case site for this study is Laos. This country was chosen because of its unique political and cultural aspects. In essence, most SMEs in Laos are called “family economies” (Set Tha Kid Khop Khoua). It is proposed that these SMEs may exhibit unique approaches to entrepreneurial behaviour and ECB.
The research question is ‘How do we conceptualise the entrepreneurial capacity building of SMEs in the least-developed countries (LDCs), particularly in Laos?’
This research project employed in-depth interviews using grounded theory and thematic coding as the mode of analysis. Eleven respondents were interviewed in Laos including SME entrepreneurs, regardless of business industries and policy makers from government agencies concerned and other international organisations. It was found that there are three significant themes that define entrepreneurial behaviour and capacity development in Laos: new initiatives, efficiency of government policy and ECB value.
At the same time, key challenges that prevent SMEs in Laos from having access to effective entrepreneurial development are identified, including financial resources, information resources, low awareness of ECB and low ECB qualifications. The research findings suggest that strategic conceptualisation for an effective ECB framework should be formulated, based on the local context of SMEs. It should act as a guideline to facilitate SME access to finance and become a mechanism for implementing a government policy of SME promotion and development. It should also be the basis for the promotion and development of entrepreneurial education.
The research question is ‘How do we conceptualise the entrepreneurial capacity building of SMEs in the least-developed countries (LDCs), particularly in Laos?’
This research project employed in-depth interviews using grounded theory and thematic coding as the mode of analysis. Eleven respondents were interviewed in Laos including SME entrepreneurs, regarless of business industries and policy makers from government agencies concerned and other international organisations. It was found that there are three significant themes that define entrepreneurial behaviour and capacity development in Laos: new initiatives, efficiency of government policy and ECB value.
At the same time, key challenges that prevent SMEs in Laos from having access to effective entrepreneurial development are identified, including financial resources, information resources, low awareness of ECB and low ECB qualifications. The research findings suggest that strategic conceptualisation for an effective ECB framework should be formulated, based on the local context of SMEs. It should act as a guideline to facilitate SME access to finance and become a mechanism for implementing a government policy of SME promotion and development. It should also be the basis for the promotion and development of entrepreneurial education.