Exploring the impact of entrepreneurial orientation on business success: An analytical study of a sample of small and medium-sized enterprises in Najaf

Abstract

The current study aims to explore the impact of entrepreneurial orientation as an independent variable — through its dimensions (innovation, risk-taking, proactiveness, autonomy, competitive aggressiveness, and competitive energy) — on business success as a dependent variable. The study focuses on a sample of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Al-Najaf Al-Ashraf Governorate.

To achieve the study objectives, a sample of 123 SMEs in Najaf was selected, and the data were analyzed using the SPSS statistical software. The study reached several conclusions, most notably that SMEs exhibit a strong entrepreneurial orientation, which contributes to better performance through the development of new products and services that meet market needs. The results also showed that reactiveness enhances a company's ability to seize opportunities before competitors, while other dimensions such as autonomy and risk-taking contribute to strengthening competitiveness and achieving success.

Based on these findings, it can be concluded that enhancing entrepreneurial orientation among SMEs in Al-Najaf Al-Ashraf is an effective strategy for improving their performance and increasing their competitiveness in the market. Moreover, the study provides valuable insights for policymakers and decision-makers in supporting these enterprises by providing an enabling environment that fosters innovation, risk-taking, and reactiveness — thereby contributing to sustainable growth and tangible business success.