Date of Conferral

2019

Degree

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

School

Information Systems and Technology

Advisor

Dr. Mohamad Hammoud

Abstract

In 2015, a sharp decline in the sustainability of small agrarian businesses in Sierra Leone resulted in the gross domestic product declining by 41%. The purpose of this multiple case study was to explore the innovation strategies owners of small agrarian businesses use to sustain their businesses for longer than 5 years. The disruptive innovation theory was the conceptual framework for this study. The participants were 16 owners of small agrarian businesses from Makeni, Kenema, Bo, and Freetown districts in Sierra Leone who have sustained their businesses for longer than 5 years. Data were collected using semistructured interviews, personal notes, and a review of the ministry of agriculture documents. Member checking and methodological triangulation increased the validity and reliability of the study findings. Content and thematic data analysis using Yin's 5-step process provided the basis for identifying the findings. Data analysis resulted in the emergence of 5 themes: financial support, leadership, technology, enhanced competency, and organizational culture. The implications for positive social change include the potential to create employment opportunities for youths in the communities by enabling agrarian businesses in Sierra Leone to succeed and expand using innovation strategies.

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