An Investigation of the Small Business Start-ups' Performance

Abstract

This paper aims to scrutinize the factors that influence the performance of small businesses in the early stages of operation. The sample for this study consists of small enterprises that operate under the Tunas Mekar programme in the states of Terengganu and Kelantan. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to analyse the data. This study reveals that entrepreneurial characteristics, management practices, and training and guidance significantly influence the performance of small business start-ups. This paper proves that entrepreneurial characteristics and management practices are important attributes for the performance in the initial stage of an enterprise. It also reminds theorists and practitioners that to ensure the sustainability of emerging small enterprises, training should not be neglected.