How Can Entrepreneurial Ecosystems and Emerging Technologies Drive the Growth and Resilience of South Africa’s Manufacturing SMEs?

Abstract Book of the 14th International Conference on Opportunities and Challenges in Management, Economics and Accounting

Year: 2026

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How Can Entrepreneurial Ecosystems and Emerging Technologies Drive the Growth and Resilience of South Africa’s Manufacturing SMEs?

Lindokuhle Senamile Ntuli

ABSTRACT:

Manufacturing Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) play a vital role in driving economic growth, job creation, poverty reduction, and industrial transformation in South Africa. Despite global recognition of the transformative potential of emerging technologies, manufacturing SMEs particularly within the eThekwini District Municipality continue to lag in digital adoption. This research investigates the extent to which entrepreneurial ecosystems and emerging technologies influence the performance, competitiveness, and resilience of manufacturing SMEs in this region. Grounded in the context of South Africa’s evolving industrial policy and the national vision for digital transformation, the study explores key factors affecting adoption of emerging technologies, such as digital tools, cloud computing, automation, and data analytics. A sample of 250 SME owners and managers in eThekwini was surveyed using questionnaire and analysed through quantitative methods. Findings reveal that although awareness of emerging technologies is relatively high, actual adoption remains in its infancy, primarily constrained by financial limitations, inadequate digital infrastructure, and lack of skilled personnel. However, many SMEs recognize the strategic value of digital tools in enhancing productivity, streamlining operations, and boosting customer satisfaction. The study further emphasizes the critical role of support structures such as government-led skills development initiatives, private sector innovation partnerships, and academic-industry collaboration in fostering a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem capable of accelerating technological adoption. This paper argues that for manufacturing SMEs in emerging economies to thrive in the digital age, a collaborative ecosystem approach is essential one that aligns resources, skills, institutions, and adaptive strategies for long-term industrial resilience and inclusive economic development.

Keywords: Digital Adoption; Industrial Transformation; Emerging Technologies; Entrepreneurial Ecosystems; Manufacturing SMEs