THE INFLUENCE OF GREEN ENTREPRENEURIAL ORIENTATION ANDENTREPRENEURIAL COMPETENCIES ON SUSTAINABLE BUSINESSPERFORMANCE: MEDIATING ROLE OF ACCESS TO FINANCE

Abstract

This study examines the influence of green entrepreneurial orientation and entrepreneurial
competencies on sustainable business performance, with access to finance as a mediating
factor among SMEs in the Gambia. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected
from a stratified random sample of 378 SMEs in the Kanifing Municipal Council. Analysis was
carried out via Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) with
SmartPLS 4.0, employing a path weighting scheme algorithm suitable for smaller samples and
complex models. Results indicate that limited access to finance, inadequate entrepreneurial
skills, infrastructural deficits, and socio-cultural barriers significantly constrain green
business adoption. Both green entrepreneurial orientation and entrepreneurial skills partially
mediate the outcome of access to finance on sustainable business performance, suggesting
financial access alone cannot drive sustainability without complementary capabilities and
strategic environmental focus. The study recommends integrated policy and institutional
interventions, including tailored financial products, capacity-building programs, and
supportive regulations to empower SMEs. Public awareness campaigns to foster sustainabilityoriented entrepreneurial culture are also vital. By advancing empirical understanding of the
interplay between financial and human capital in influencing sustainable outcomes, this
research offers actionable perceptions for legislators, financial institutions, and business
leaders. It contributes to the growing discourse on green entrepreneurship and provides a
framework for promoting resilient and environmentally responsible SME growth in The
Gambia.