Entrepreneurial Resilience and Firm Performance: Perspectives of Small-Scale Poultry Farms in Delta State, Nigeria
Clinton Emmanuella
Entrepreneurial resilience has become a critical factor in determining the survival and growth of small-scale enterprises, particularly in volatile business environments. This study examined the effect of leveraging entrepreneurial resilience on firm performance among small-scale poultry farms in Delta State, Nigeria. Entrepreneurial resilience is proxied by emotional regulation (ER), and networking and social capital (NSC). A cross-sectional survey research design was employed, and data were collected from 352 poultry farm owners using a structured questionnaire. The study aims to assess how these dimensions contribute to firm performance, using descriptive statistics, correlation and multiple regression analysis to determine their relative impact. The results reveal that all four dimensions of entrepreneurial resilience significantly influence firm performance. ER (β = 0.352, p < .001) was another key determinant, indicating that poultry farm owners who effectively manage emotions under stress experience better decision-making and improved performance. NSC (β = 0.033, p = .020) had the weakest, yet still significant, impact, suggesting that while social networks and relationships contribute to business success, they are less crucial compared to adaptability and emotional regulation in this context. The study concludes that leveraging entrepreneurial resilience significantly enhances firm performance, particularly through adaptability and emotional regulation. It recommends that poultry farmers should adopt flexible business strategies, cultivate emotional intelligence, and develop perseverance to withstand industry challenges. Policymakers and stakeholders should also create programs to enhance resilience-building skills among entrepreneurs. This research contributes to knowledge by extending the understanding of entrepreneurial resilience in the Nigerian agribusiness sector, particularly within poultry farming.
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