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Entrepreneurship and innovation in Ghana: enterprising Africa

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Abstract

This study adopts a multi-level theoretical framework to examine data from 496 entrepreneurs in Ghana. Seven types of innovation activity are analysed against three categories of variables: the characteristics of the entrepreneur, the internal competencies of the firm, and firm location. Across all respondents, the incidence of incremental innovation was far greater than novel innovation. The extent of innovation was related to the education level of the entrepreneur. Firm size and involvement in exporting were positively related to innovation, but firm growth is less systematically so. Innovation was greater in firms located in conurbations compared to firms located in large and small towns. We conclude with suggestions for policy to promote entrepreneurship and innovation in Ghana.

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  1. Business School, Durham University, Mill Hill Lane, Durham, DH1 3LB, UK

    Paul J. A. Robson & Bernard Acquah Obeng

  2. Judge Business School, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1AG, UK

    Helen M. Haugh

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  1. Paul J. A. Robson
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Correspondence to Bernard Acquah Obeng.

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Robson, P.J.A., Haugh, H.M. & Obeng, B.A. Entrepreneurship and innovation in Ghana: enterprising Africa. Small Bus Econ 32, 331–350 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11187-008-9121-2

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