Innovation capabilities and export performance of SMEs: does managers' risk-taking propensity matter?

Purpose This paper aims to examine the relationship between innovation capabilities (INVC) and export performance (EXPERF) of manufacturing small medium enterprises (SMEs). Moreover, investigate moderating effect risk-taking propensity (RSTP) in INVC SMEs’ EXPERF. Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional survey design was used data were collected through structured questionnaires from 250 exporting SMEs Tanzania. Confirmatory factor analysis test measurement model. The hypotheses empirically tested using PROCESS macro test. Findings findings affirm that is a significant predictor Additionally, RSTP found be moderator Research limitations/implications Although study able accomplish its overall objective, it limited terms context under which conducted. covered only single country, Hence, should interpreted with caution since each country has specific institutional environments support innovation. Originality/value this expand application resource-based view (RBV) theory context. revealed how as an intangible resource can lead successful performance. broaden applicability RBV theory. Also, contributes debate about innovation-export by revealing role