Role of entrepreneurial orientation in firm performance through project success; Moderating role of absorptive capacity in SMEs of KSA

This study aimed to examine the impact of entrepreneurial orientation on firm performance through project success and moderating role of absorptive capacity. A deductive approach was used to test the model empirically. Primary data were collected at one point in time from employees of small and medium enterprises in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. 354 responses were used for final data analysis. The structure Equation Modeling (SEM) technique was used to analyze the hypothesized relationships by using the Smart PLS3. The findings indicate that entrepreneurial orientation has a significant impact on firm performance and project success also significantly mediates this relationship. Moreover, absorptive capacity moderates the entrepreneurial orientation impact on project success this relation becomes stronger in the presence of absorptive capacity. This study adds value to the literature and proves the mediating role of project success and moderating role of absorptive capacity. Practically, it highlights the importance of entrepreneurial activities for firm performance and project success. (C) 2021 The Authors. Published by IASE.