What are the critical success factors for small farming businesses? Evidence from Zambia

Abstract

Small farming businesses play a cardinal role in most countries, as they contribute to food security, employment creation, and rural development. However, small farming businesses face a number of challenges that have potential to hinder their performance. The purpose of the study is to identify critical success factors for small farming businesses in Zambia. The study employed an exploratory approach that involved multiple cases of six small farm owners. Additionally, four experts from the agriculture industry were also involved in the study. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data, which was analyzed thematically using Atlas.ti software. Seven common dimensions emerged as critical success factors. These critical success factors include entrepreneurial characteristics, availability of financial resources, farm management practices, adoption of technology, knowledge, networking, and government support. The study provides implications that can help with development of the small farming businesses in Zambia.