Sustainability Performance of Informal Micro-Enterprises: the Case of Senegal

Abstract

This study empirically investigates the relationship between entrepreneurial competencies and sustainability performance. It also explores the direct effects of financial capital, human capital, social capital, government support and business environment on sustainability performance of micro-enterprises operating in the informal sector. The study is conducted within the context of Senegal and through the lens of resource-based view theory. Employing a cross-sectional design, data is collected from randomly selected micro and small entrepreneurs operating in the informal sector. The outcomes include a positive effect of opportunity recognition competency, commitment competency and government support on the sustainability performance of micro-enterprises. An Importance Performance Matrix analysis indicates that these factors are the most important factors determining sustainability performance of micro-enterprises within the context of the informal sector. The findings extend the scope of RBV while simultaneously enhancing the knowledge and understanding pertaining to the interplay of entrepreneurial competencies and sustainability performance, particularly for small business operators in the informal sector. Implications are drawn to theory development, practice and public policy.