A Special Case for SME Sustainability: The Role of Government Financial Support, Regulatory Reforms, and Market Access in Ghana

Abstract

This study examines the impact of government financial support, regulatory reforms, market access, and skills development on SME sustainability and export performance in Ghana. Data from 4,764 SME owners/managers were analysed using confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling. The empirical results show government support, regulatory reforms, and access to finance positively influence SME sustainability, while market access and skills development enhance export performance. However, access to finance does not mediate the relationship between government support and sustainability. These findings offer insights for policymakers, agencies, and SME stakeholders to improve sustainability strategies.