Title: Exploring the relevance and useability of academic entrepreneurial research for SMEs

Authors: Jalleh Sharafizad; Fleur Sharafizad; Kerry Brown

Addresses: School of Business and Law, Edith Cowan University, 270 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup, Western Australia ' School of Business and Law, Edith Cowan University, 270 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup, Western Australia ' School of Business and Law, Edith Cowan University, 270 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup, Western Australia

Abstract: Entrepreneurship receives extensive academic attention, with research typically focusing on equipping entrepreneurs with competencies to navigate the challenges and opportunities inherent in entrepreneurial activities. However, whether and how small and medium enterprises (SMEs) adopt these research findings remain unclear. Utilising a systematic literature review, our research outlines key aspects about if and how academic research may be translated to entrepreneurs to achieve practical utility in entrepreneurship. Data from five major databases were analysed using the well-recognised preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) method. Findings reveal that while most research offers practical insights, evidence of SME adoption is lacking. The results also suggest limited evidence of potential collaboration between academics and SMEs to inform the research design or assist with measuring the effectiveness of the findings post-research completion. A novel research framework is proposed to guide academics in crafting SME-actionable and practical research designs. This paper represents the first meta-analysis assessing SME entrepreneurs' perceptions of academic research's relevance and usefulness. Theoretical and practical contributions, limitations and directions for future research are outlined.

Keywords: SMEs; small and medium enterprises; entrepreneurial research; academic research; research relevance; research useability; practical implications.

DOI: 10.1504/IJGSB.2025.151852

International Journal of Globalisation and Small Business, 2025 Vol.15 No.3, pp.295 - 326

Received: 10 Jun 2024
Accepted: 24 Mar 2025
Published online: 23 Feb 2026 *

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