Survey analysis demonstrates that learning orientation mediates the link between entrepreneurial leadership and employee development in small businesses, indicating the need for joint adoption.
Most developing countries rely on SMEs for economic growth. However, SMEs face challenges in human resource development. This research aimed to advance knowledge in this area by investigating the mediating role of learning orientation in the relationship between entrepreneurial leadership and human resource development. The dynamic capabilities theory guided the study. The research was done with 321 respondents from SMEs. Data were collected using a closed-ended questionnaire. Data analysis was done through SPSS version 30.0. Regression analysis was conducted to assess causal relationships, and Andrew F. Hayes’ test was performed to determine mediation. The research elaborates that learning orientation mediates the relationship between entrepreneurial leadership and human resource development. The study recommends that HRD professionals and SME leadership implement entrepreneurial leadership and a learning orientation simultaneously to achieve human resources development.
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Muchowe et al. (2026) studied this question.
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