Sustainability Strategies for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in Zimbabwe

Sustainability Strategies for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in Zimbabwe by Donnemore Majukwa MS, University of Liverpool, 2016 Doctoral Study Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Business Administration Walden University August 2019 Abstract Zimbabwe’s entrepreneur owners of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) comprise approximately 94% of business owners but contribute only 50% of the country’s gross domestic product. Entrepreneur owners play an important role in strengthening Zimbabwe’s economy because they create approximately 60% to 80% of employment opportunities. The purpose of this multiple case study was to explore the strategiesZimbabwe’s entrepreneur owners of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) comprise approximately 94% of business owners but contribute only 50% of the country’s gross domestic product. Entrepreneur owners play an important role in strengthening Zimbabwe’s economy because they create approximately 60% to 80% of employment opportunities. The purpose of this multiple case study was to explore the strategies owners of SME in Zimbabwe use to sustain their businesses. The population consisted of 5 owners of SMEs who have successfully implemented the strategies to sustain their businesses for over 5 years. The general systems theory was the conceptual framework of the study. Data were collected using semistructured interviews and review of company financial documents. Member checking and methodological triangulation were used to enhance the credibility and trustworthiness of the findings of the study. The data analysis process was conducted using Yin’s 5-phases of qualitative data analysis. Four themes emerged from data analysis, including passion and dedication, quality of products and services, customer satisfaction, and employing staff with the right skills. The results of the study could lead to positive social change for SMEs and the communities by helping owners of SME to create growth strategies, increase revenues for the country, and create long-term employment opportunities for the communities. The findings from the study could catalyze positive social change by improving workforce capabilities, creating awareness of the success of entrepreneurs in Zimbabwe, and increasing the interest of financial institutions in lending to SMEs. Sustainability Strategies for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in Zimbabwe by Donnemore Majukwa MS, University of Liverpool, 2016 Doctoral Study Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Business Administration Walden University August 2019 Dedication To my late mother Rita and my late sister Margaret. I wish you were here to see the man I have grown to be. Acknowledgments I am profoundly grateful to my Chair Dr. Susan K. Fan, whom for without her guidance, understanding, support, patience, and fast turnarounds, I wouldn’t have made it this far. I would also want to thank the committee members Dr. Janie Hall and Dr. Rocky Dwyer for their valued feedback. Thank you to my family and friends who have immensely supported me both by keeping me harmonious and helping me to put the pieces together and his Almighty God, for his grace in me.