(Internal Entrepreneurship in Fast Growing SME’s: A Research in Ankara Province)

Abstract

Purpose – Since today's economy is global, dynamic and competitive, the survival and growth of firms are considered as necessities. Growth requires many middle and high level decisions for SMEs. Growth in SMEs is a phenomenon that covers all middle and senior managers. Entrepreneurs in SMEs; it is a decision mechanism that directly affects growth without realizing it or being aware of it. It is believed that the level of internal entrepreneurship in SMEs directly affects the decision making process of the firm and enables rapid growth. From this point of view, internal entrepreneurship will be able to provide support to government agencies and financial institutions in the development of policies that encourage firm growth, particularly in the development of SME growth strategies. With this in mind, the aim of this study is to determine the differences between the level of internal entrepreneurship of medium and high level officials of fast-growing SMEs and non-fast-growing SMEs. Design/methodology/approach – For the purpose of the study, a survey was conducted in Ankara with KOSGEB registered SMEs. Internal entrepreneurship levels were determined by examining the rapid growth of 429 firms. Internal entrepreneurship levels of fast-growing firms and non-fast-growing firms were compared. The t-test was used for analysis. Findings – As a result of the analysis, it is seen that the level of innovation and proactive behavior of fast growing SMEs is higher than those that do not grow fast. Discussion – Within the scope of the research, innovation and proactive behavior development in SMEs will support rapid growth. This will provide an effective increase in employment and an advantage in global competition.