Journal of Entrepreneurship Research

Journal of Entrepreneurship Research

Identification and Prioritization of Key Factors Influencing the Improvement of Business Development Services in Industrial Clusters

Document Type : Research Article

Authors
Amir Hajipour 1
Hamid Azizmohammadlou 2
Naser Khani 1
Bita Yazdani 1
1 Department of Management, Na. C., Islamic Azad University, Najafabad, Iran.
2 Department of Accounting, Faculty of Social Sciences, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin, Iran.
10.22034/jer.2025.2047252.1225
Abstract
Introduction: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are recognized as a vital sector for sustainable development and economic growth. These businesses play a significant role in gross domestic product, job creation, income generation, and poverty reduction, particularly in developing and emerging economies. As drivers of economic activity, SMEs bring flexibility and innovation and contribute to local and regional development. Industrial clusters, defined as geographically concentrated groups of interconnected commercial and non-commercial entities, play a fundamental role in enhancing SME capabilities. These clusters consist of firms engaged in producing similar or related goods and services. Targeted support in the form of business development services is essential for industrial clusters. Given the importance of such services, this study aims to identify and prioritize the key factors influencing the improvement of business development services within industrial clusters.
Methodology:  This study adopts a mixed-methods approach and is applied in nature. Initially, a qualitative study was conducted, followed by a quantitative phase based on the qualitative findings. Thematic analysis was used to analyze data in the qualitative phase, while the quantitative phase employed fuzzy screening and importance-performance analysis. The qualitative sample consisted of experts and specialists in business clusters, as well as consultants from business advisory service centers across the country. Purposive sampling was used and continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and written sources, with validation conducted via participant feedback and retesting. Data analysis was performed using MAXQDA software. In the quantitative phase, fuzzy screening was applied with input from nine experts to eliminate non-influential factors and identify key factors. Data were collected using a fuzzy-scale questionnaire and analyzed through importance-performance analysis. Excel software was used for fuzzy screening and importance-performance calculations.
Findings: Data analysis identified 40 indicators across seven main dimensions of key factors influencing the improvement of business development services in industrial clusters. These dimensions are: infrastructure and institutional structures for service development, macro-level policies and support, economic barriers, socio-cultural interactions in service improvement, capabilities and competencies of service providers, training and human resource development, and the need and willingness to use business development services within clusters.
Conclusion / Implications: The findings indicate that the development of business services in industrial clusters is influenced by key factors such as firms’ financial capacity, the need and willingness to use services, the competencies of business development service providers, and network interactions. Adequate infrastructure, government support, and regulatory reforms are also essential for improving these services. Enhancing the quality and capabilities of service providers, building trust, and continuously evaluating provider performance are crucial for increasing service effectiveness. Ultimately, establishing specialized networks, facilitating collaborative partnerships, and implementing comprehensive evaluation and monitoring models can contribute to the growth and enhancement of industrial clusters.
Keywords
Business Development Services
Industrial Clusters
Small and Medium Enterprises
Fuzzy Screening
Importance-Performance Analysis

Subjects

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  • Receive Date 01 December 2024
  • Revise Date 09 February 2025
  • Accept Date 15 February 2025