Effects of Entrepreneurship Development Programs on Business Innovation of Small and Medium Enterprises in Kebbi State, Nigeria

This study examines the effect of Entrepreneurship Development Programmes (EDPs) on Business Innovation among Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Kebbi State, Nigeria. The population comprised 1,280 registered SMEs documented by the Kebbi State Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Tourism (2024). A sample of 305 SMEs was determined using the Taro Yamane formula, of which 269 questionnaires were duly completed and found valid for analysis, representing an 88.2% response rate. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to SME owners/managers. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (Pearson correlation and multiple regression analysis).
The results show that the EDP proxies had significant positive correlations with Business Innovation: Access to Finance (r = 0.676), Awareness and Motivation (r = 0.798), Technology Adoption (r = 0.811), and Skills Development (r = 0.601), all at p < 0.05. Multiple regression results indicate that the model was statistically significant and explained 72.8% of the variation in Business Innovation (R = 0.854, R² = 0.728, Adjusted R² = 0.724, F(4, 264) = 176.59, p < 0.001). Technology Adoption (B = 0.451, p < 0.001) emerged as the strongest predictor, followed by Awareness and Motivation (B = 0.328, p < 0.001) and Access to Finance (B = 0.172, p = 0.002). Skills Development (B = 0.043, p = 0.421) was not statistically significant.
The study concludes that business innovation among SMEs in Kebbi State is associated particularly with technology adoption, entrepreneurial awareness and motivation, and access to finance. It recommends integrated EDPs that prioritize technology infrastructure, digital tools, motivational programmes, and tailored financial solutions. Skills development curricula should be reoriented toward practical, innovation-focused, and technology-driven content.

Business Innovation, Entrepreneurship Development Programmes, Access to Finance, Technology Adoption, Small and Medium Enterprises, Kebbi State.

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