Innovative Entrepreneurship and Development of SME Opportunities among Agricultural Entrepreneurs in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study aims to check the association between innovative entrepreneurship and the development of SMEs' opportunities. The research context is Akwa Ibom State.

159 respondents, who were agricultural entrepreneurs drawn from 9 centres in Uyo and Etinan Agricultural zones of Uyo senatorial district, were examined using a quantitative method. Results revealed that a close relationship between innovative behavior, risk-taking, and the development of SMEs' Opportunities exists among Agricultural Entrepreneurs.

Innovative behavior had a significant relationship with the number of SMEs' opportunities utilized by entrepreneurs in the study area [(p<0.05) with r = 0.298]. At the same time, risk-taking did not show any significant association (p>0.05) with r = 0.071. This implies that innovative behaviour is an essential trait influencing entrepreneurial development among Agricultural Entrepreneurs in the Uyo Senatorial district of Akwa Ibom State. As such, innovative behaviors should be highly encouraged and nurtured among Agro entrepreneurs, promoting the development of new and innovative agro-ventures in the state.