ANTECEDENTS OF SUCCESS AMONG MICRO AND SMALL ENTERPRISES: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF ONGATA RONGAI, KAJIADO COUNTY, KENYA AND NAMPA, IDAHO, USA
ANTECEDENTS OF SUCCESS AMONG MICRO AND SMALL ENTERPRISES: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF ONGATA RONGAI, KAJIADO COUNTY, KENYA AND NAMPA, IDAHO, USA

Summary/Abstract: This comparative study sought to examine the success factors among micro and smallenterprises (MSEs) in Ongata Rongai, Kajiado County Kenya, and Nampa, Idaho, USA, withintheir distinct socio-economic landscapes. Ongata Rongai, originally a peri-urban settlementnear Nairobi, has become a commercial hub where MSEs are crucial for job creation andpoverty alleviation despite facing challenges like limited financial resources and inadequateinfrastructure. Conversely, Nampa has diversified from agriculture to a robust economy withbetter financial access and support services, focusing on business growth, market penetration,and personal fulfillment. The specific objectives of this study included to assess howentrepreneurs in micro and small enterprises define and perceive business success, the extent towhich entrepreneurship in micro and small enterprises is perceived to reduce poverty, the role oftrade secrets in the competitive advantage, the predictors of success, and the key success factorsamong micro and small enterprises in Ongata Rongai, Kenya, and Nampa, Idaho USA. A mixedmethod research design was used, combining qualitative and quantitative data from MSEs withfewer than 20 full-time employees. Non-probability sampling included purposive, snowballing,self-selection, and convenience sampling. The study had 138 respondents from Nampa and193 from Ongata Rongai. Findings revealed distinct differences: Ongata Rongai emphasizedeconomic stability, community upliftment, and trade secrets, while Nampa focused on growth,innovation, and personal fulfillment. Both regions valued profitability and sustainability,influenced by their cultural and socio-economic contexts. Quantitative analysis highlighted thesedifferences, with Ongata Rongai prioritizing trade secrets for competitive advantage and Nampaemphasizing financial resources, marketing strategies, and government support.Recommendations include improving financial resources, technology, and marketing strategiesthrough funding, training, and legal support. Specifically, Ongata Rongai needs investment ininfrastructure, technology transfer, and market access. Entrepreneurs should focus oncustomer-centric approaches, strong business networks, and creative innovation. Further studies should explore the role of trade secrets, cultural impacts on business growth, and theeffectiveness of international partnerships in local entrepreneurship.

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