Date of Conferral

2-24-2026

Degree

Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)

School

Management

Advisor

Kim Critchlow

Abstract

Ineffective strategies for leveraging resources can lead to early business closures. Small-to medium-sized enterprise (SME) owners who struggle to acquire sufficient resources for their operations may experience diminished profits and business instability as a result. Grounded in resource-based view (RBV) theory, the purpose of this qualitative pragmatic inquiry research project was to identify and explore effective strategies used by SME owners to leverage resources and sustain business operations beyond 5 years. The participants were 10 SME owners who had implemented strategies for sustainable business operations. Data were collected through semistructured interviews and a review of relevant public documents. Using thematic analysis, four themes were identified: (a) business planning and implementation strategies, (b) financial management and resource strategies, (c) customer acquisition and retention strategies, and (d) human capital management strategies. A key recommendation is for SME owners to view their business holistically and consider all resources as potential sources of strength to be leveraged. The implications for positive social change include the potential for SME owners to implement the identified strategies to sustain their enterprises, thereby expanding meaningful employment opportunities for individuals in the communities in which the businesses operate. In addition to providing employment and services to residents, SMEs can have a significant impact on the overall economic health of the community.

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