Antecedents of success among micro and small enterprises: A comparative analysis of Ongata Rongai, Kajiado County, Kenya and Nampa, Idaho, USA.

Abstract

This comparative study sought to examine the success factors among micro and small enterprises (MSEs) in Ongata Rongai, Kajiado County Kenya, and Nampa, Idaho, USA, within their distinct socio-economic landscapes. Ongata Rongai, originally a peri-urban settlement near Nairobi, has become a commercial hub where MSEs are crucial for job creation and poverty alleviation despite facing challenges like limited financial resources and inadequate infrastructure. Conversely, Nampa has diversified from agriculture to a robust economy with better financial access and support services, focusing on business growth, market penetration,and personal fulfillment. The specific objectives of this study included to assess how entrepreneurs in micro and small enterprises define and perceive business success, the extent to which entrepreneurship in micro and small enterprises is perceived to reduce poverty, the role of trade secrets in the competitive advantage, the predictors of success, and the key success factors among micro and small enterprises in Ongata Rongai, Kenya, and Nampa, Idaho USA. A mixed method research design was used, combining qualitative and quantitative data from MSEs with fewer 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 emphasized economic 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 these differences, with Ongata Rongai prioritizing trade secrets for competitive advantage and Nampa emphasizing financial resources, marketing strategies, and government support.Recommendations include improving financial resources, technology, and marketing strategies through funding, training, and legal support. Specifically, Ongata Rongai needs investment in infrastructure, 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 the effectiveness of international partnerships in local entrepreneurship.