FACTORS IMPACTING INNOVATION AND CREATIVITY ACTIVITIES IN SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES IN THE SOUTHEAST REGION

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to assess the factors influencing innovation activities in small and medium-sized enterprises in the Southeast region of Vietnam. The study employs a structural equation model (SEM) to test the hypotheses proposed in the research model. The research results identify six independent variables (ecosystem factors, knowledge management capabilities, customers, government support, and competitive environment) influencing owner characteristics (mediating variable) and innovation activities (dependent variable). Based on the research findings, the authors suggests policy implications to impact owner characteristics and innovation activities of small and medium-sized enterprises in the Southeast region of Vietnam.