ENTREPRENEURIAL COGNITIVE CHARACTERISTICS AND ENTERPRISE GROWTH IN ZAMFARA STATE: A STUDY OF OPPORTUNITY- DRIVEN EARLY-STAGE ENTREPRENEURS

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between cognitive entrepreneurial characteristics and enterprise growth in Zamfara State. Utilizing a quantitative research design, data were collected from 366 early-stage entrepreneurs across the manufacturing, education, and wholesale and retail trade sectors in six local governments. The data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to test the proposed hypotheses regarding the impact of key cognitive traits self-efficacy, alertness to opportunity, and innovativeness on enterprise growth, measured by sales and employee growth. The findings reveal a significant and positive relationship between the examined cognitive characteristics and enterprise growth, underscoring the importance of these traits in fostering the success of early-stage enterprises in the region. This study contributes to the existing literature by highlighting the critical role of cognitive traits in entrepreneurial growth, particularly within a developing economy context. Based on the results, it is recommended that both entrepreneurs and policymakers prioritize the development of these cognitive traits through targeted educational programs and strategic initiatives, as they are pivotal to driving business growth and economic development in Zamfara State.