Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations Commons^™

Surveying The Effects Of In-Person And Word Of Mouth Appeals To Gen-Z On Fundraising Outcomes, Stephanie Huynh

Honors Theses

Fluctuations in consumer behavior and perceived disposable income are a concern for nonprofit budgeting. Even with recurring donor subscriptions, donations can be an unreliable source of income. As Gen Zers become more prevalent in the workforce, it is a matter of time until they form the majority of the donor pool. This study explored the efficacy of repetition as a fundraising tool in appealing to Gen Zers. The sample was Gen Z students at the University of South Alabama, and a voluntary exploratory quantitative survey was administered. 113 responses were gathered. Through analysis with Spearman’s correlations and descriptive statistics, it …

Does Ai Intergration Moderate The Relationship Between Firm Growth And Performance In Smes: The Influence Of Decision-Making And Operational Performance, Dalal T. Alqahtani

Graduate Theses and Dissertations (2019 - present)

Today's dynamic business environment requires small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to keep up with technological advancements in order to remain competitive. Business growth creates more challenges for SMEs since they possess fewer available resources than big organizations. Since the introduction of artificial intelligence (Al), several SMEs have been able to compete more effectively and deliver better performance. As part of this research, I examine the possibility that Al integration (All) will moderate the relationship between firm growth and both decision-making and operational performance, ultimately affecting the performance of SMEs. The aim of this research is to provide practical implications for …

Creative Brief For North Shores Resort & Marina, Shelby B. King

Marketing Undergraduate Honors Theses

In today’s experience-driven travel market, destinations that offer authenticity, affordability, and a sense of community stand out. North Shores Resort and Marina, located on the scenic northeast end of Lake Ouachita, has long been a hidden gem offering a strong sense of family and community, prolonged camper stays, and more economical pricing compared to nearby marinas. Despite consistently high occupancy rates for boat slips and campsites, North Shores has an opportunity to expand its visibility and grow its customer base through improved marketing strategies. As a former employee with direct insight into the day-to-day operations, I identified key areas where …

Optimizing Fulfillment Operations For Online Retailing, Yujie Sun

Dissertations and Theses Collection (Open Access)

This thesis investigates order fulfillment operations for online retailing. Order fulfillment encompasses the entire process of receiving, processing, and delivering customer orders. The rapid growth of e-commerce has heightened the demand for efficient fulfillment operations. This thesis explores strategies for optimizing order fulfillment in three scenarios. The first scenario studies cellular bucket brigade, a method for coordinating workers in an assembly line or order-picking environment to improve workflow efficiency. The second scenario investigates zone picking, serial bucket brigades and cellular bucket brigades with hand-off times. The third scenario focuses on autonomous robotic systems within package sortation centers.

Chapter 2 investigates …

Successful Commercialisation In Startup Accelerator Programmes: How Different Startup Ecosystems Matter, Farzaneh Eslamloo, Kerry Brown, Zahra Amrollahi Biyouki

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

This study examined the influence of the Western Australian and Iranian startup ecosystem contexts, including the powers and liabilities that determine startups’ commercialisation outcomes. By utilising a theoretical framework based on programme evaluation, explanatory theory building, and critical realism, a cross-contextual comparison study was conducted. The study showed that the context of startup accelerator programmes and the startup ecosystem is an important determinant of commercialisation outcomes. The study revealed factors that impede startup accelerator programme success, including low follow-on investment, ecosystem immaturity, the ineffective agency of the Western Australian and Iranian governments, low levels of talent among startup agents, and …

The Digital Incorporated Worker Narrative: A Mixed Methods Study Of Digital Capital, Work Selection, And Outcomes In The Fourth Industrial Revolution, Tracie King

Dissertations

Digital technology permeates society and industry, making digital-ready workers necessary for firms of all sizes as a firm seeks competitiveness in the market (Bergson-Shilcock et al., 2023; de Ruyter et al., 2018; Gorski et al., 2022; Karaboğa, 2023; Kim et al., 2017; Qureshi Zia, 2019). Firms seeking digital-ready workers face a complex digital divide that creates a worker shortage (Bergson-Shilcock et al., 2023; Karaboğa, 2023; Qureshi Zia, 2019). This study aims to describe workers' work selection, work experience, and outcomes in a complex digital society.

Most digital divide research focuses on the individuals excluded from owning, accessing, and having skills …

The New Professional: Exploring Careers Other Than Clinical Dentistry, Amrita Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This "New Professional" column explores alternative career paths for dentists who find clinical practice unfulfilling. It encourages reflection on personal interests and highlights various options within the dental field and beyond, such as dental education, research, practice management, dental sales, product development, and public health dentistry. The article emphasizes that a dental degree provides a strong foundation for diverse roles that still contribute to the well-being of others. It suggests that transitioning to a new career path requires an open mind and a focus on one's passions and values. Entrepreneurship is also mentioned as a potential avenue.

Staff Matters: Understanding And Implementing The Earned Sick Time Act, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This month’s "Staff Matters" column provides a summary of the recent amendments to the Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA) in Michigan, which brought significant changes just as the original effective date approached. It clarifies the effective dates for different employer sizes, with small employers (10 or fewer employees) having an extended deadline of October 1, 2025. The article outlines key changes related to structuring time banks, policy revisions, and required employee notifications. It also mentions free resources and tools available through HRM Services and a revised MDA Staff Matters® Sample Employee Handbook to aid in ESTA compliance.

Marketing Communications Mix Practices Among Micro And Small-Scale Enterprises, Marge Ethan A. Urbiztondo

The South East Asian Journal of Management

Research Aims: In developing and emerging economies, MSMEs are pivotal in generating income and fostering economic growth. However, in regions like Mindanao Island, Philippines, there are significant challenges to fostering equitable MSME-induced growth. This study delves into practices related to the marketing communications mix among micro and small enterprises in this region.

Design/Methodology/Approach: A mixed-methods approach is used, including quantitative analysis of the marketing communications mix practices among MSMEs, as well as qualitative analysis of interviews with micro and small enterprise owners.

Research Findings: The study reveals a significant difference between advertising assessments grouped according to years of operations, classification, …

Optimizing Operation Processes And Supply Chain Management For Enhanced Service And Product Quality In Quick Service Restaurants, Joel Mark Rodriguez, Hanna V. Reambonanza, Lourdes Palallos

The South East Asian Journal of Management

Research Aims: The research aimed to identify the relationship between operational processes, supply chain management, and their impact on the quality of service and products in Quick Service Restaurants in the Philippines. It addresses a very critical research gap by providing empirical evidence on how these factors collectively influence business performance.

Design/Methodology/Approach: A quantitative research design was used – structured questionnaires were administered to 392 QSR employees and managers working in different locations of the Philippines. Data analysis used correlation, regression, and SEM for robustness.

Research Findings: The research proved that sound operational management and supply chain practices improved the …

Comparative Study Of Entrepreneurial Resilience And Gender, Raegan Burkey

Honors Projects

This study aimed to determine if there was a significant difference in the relative importance of resilience factors between male entrepreneurs and female entrepreneurs in order to discover which elements are most relied upon by each gender. To do this, I identified various elements of resilience through a literature review and combined them into a survey. In the survey, participants answered demographic related questions, including a question about gender, prior to moving into resilience element rankings. I then completed a factor analysis to identify three distinct factors: Propensity for Growth, Adaptive Commitment, and Self-Regulation. A T Test revealed that there …

Why Should You Support Entrepreneurs?, Addison Forrester

2025 Student Academic Showcase

I will give a presentation based on the research and facts on why supporting entrepreneurs is good for the United States economy. How can you support the economy? The answer is to shop small and support new. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of our society, driving innovation and creating jobs. This presentation will explore the impact of these entrepreneurs and how your choices can make a big difference.

Connecting Emotionally: Examining The Impact Of Narrative Video Advertising On Consumer Involvement And Brand Attachment, Anni Rahimah, Shannon Saghava Aqfa Dzikrullah, Ameylia Ayu Astira

BISNIS & BIROKRASI: Jurnal Ilmu Administrasi dan Organisasi

The increasingly competitive advertising landscape necessitates innovative strategies to engage potential customers effectively. This study investigates the impact of emotional and narrative-driven video advertisements on attitudes toward advertisements and advertisement involvement, ultimately fostering emotional brand attachment among viewers. This research adopts a quantitative approach, employing Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) based on Partial Least Squares (PLS) using SmartPLS 4 software. Data were collected through a structured survey involving 131 respondents who had utilized the GoSend service in DKI Jakarta, Indonesia. The results demonstrate that emotional and narrative elements in video advertisements exert a significant positive influence on viewers’ attitudes toward advertisements …

Survival Of The Venture Companies Depending On The Access To Capitals, Ruslan Akhmadullin

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Social and entrepreneurial capitals encompass a combination of human, social, and intellectual resources that enable entrepreneurs to identify, create, and exploit business opportunities. This study investigates how the interplay between these forms of capital influences entrepreneurs' access to financial resources and their overall success. Social capital, comprising networks, relationships, and trust, is critical for accessing resources and building credibility with investors. Human capital, including skills, experience, and perseverance, enhances the capacity to navigate entrepreneurial challenges and present viable business proposals. However, traditional funding processes often impose barriers, such as stringent requirements and limited access to capital, that disproportionately affect startups. …

Capturing Tradition: The Business, Branding, And Personal Identity Of Senior Portraits In The Modern South, Xenia R. Minton

Honors Theses

The rise of college students starting photography businesses, particularly in graduation portraits, has transformed the creative and entrepreneurial landscape in the South. This thesis explores the senior portrait culture at the University of Mississippi, analyzing its rapid growth through the perspectives of photographers and academic experts in Southern Studies. Grounded in eight years of experience as a photographer, this study examines the evolution of the industry, business strategies, and cultural significance. Through interviews with seasoned senior portrait photographers and Southern Studies professors, this research investigates how regional traditions, social media, and consumer expectations have shaped the profession. By analyzing these …

Book Review: Justice Batted Last, Darlene A. Kluka, Aaron Livingston

Global Sport Business Journal

Book Review of Don Zminda's (2025) Justice Batted Last: Ernie Banks, Minnie Miñoso, and the Unheralded Players Who Integrated Chicago's Major League Teams

Who’S More Likely To Do Science Philanthropy? Research On The Factors Influencing Chinese Private Entrepreneurs’ Willingness To Do Science Philanthropy, Tsz Ho Tony Lau

Dissertations and Theses Collection (Open Access)

China’s investment in scientific research funds feature relatively small amount and unitary structure of source. In recent years, the Chinese government has constantly issued policies to encourage social capital to participate in scientific research, especially fundamental research, by charitable donations or the like, but no significant results have been achieved. China's private entrepreneurs are the main force behind charitable giving. Therefore, it is imperative to engage these private entrepreneurs.

This thesis works on the characteristics of private entrepreneurs who are more likely to donate to scientific research. It can be divided into two parts/studies of research: 1) the impact of …

Capital Formation, The Sec, And Accredited Investors, Neal F. Newman, Lawrence J. Trautman, Brian Elzweig

Faculty Scholarship

Protecting the investing public, while simultaneously facilitating the efficient flow of capital needed by all new and growing businesses continues as a primary responsibility of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Enhancing the capital formation process is a necessary step in the creation of jobs and growth of any economy. Central to the SEC’s regulatory schematic is the proposition that some particularly sophisticated and wealthy investors require less protection than those with less knowledge, experience, and resources. During December 2023, for just the third time, the SEC staff issued a report examining the status of the natural person accredited …

Entrepreneurial Orientation In Family Firms: The Role Of Intergenerational Dynamics, Firm Size, And External Working Experience, Wai Sam Kong

Dissertations and Theses Collection (Open Access)

Family firms are key contributors to the global economy, yet their long-term entrepreneurial sustainability remains uncertain, particularly during intergenerational transitions. While entrepreneurial orientation (EO) has been studied widely in general business contexts, the interplay between intergenerational dynamics and EO remains underexplored in family firms. This study addresses the existing gap by methodically studying how family-specific factors influence EO, thereby contributing a novel perspective to entrepreneurship and family business research. Drawing on Constructivist Learning Theory, we conceptualise EO not as a static firm attribute but as a developmental process shaped by intergenerational interactions, governance structures, and external influences. Using a multi-method …

Unveiling Belonging: Women Entrepreneurs’ Belonging Strategies To Navigate The Embedding Process, Saskia Stoker, Ana Cruz-Garcia, Ingrid Wakkee

Dept. of Marketing & International Business Publications

Purpose

Opportunity-driven women entrepreneurs encounter gendered challenges in leveraging social networks essential for business development. This research builds on Stead (2017), exploring how women navigate these challenges and foster belonging within these networks. Utilising a post-structural feminist lens, we aim to understand the strategies employed by women entrepreneurs to maintain embeddedness in social networks. Our findings contribute to an understanding of the complex interplay between gender, belonging strategies and embeddedness in entrepreneurship.

Design/methodology/approach

This study draws on in-depth interviews (31) with opportunity-driven women entrepreneurs. Thematic analyses were conducted to capture the women’s understandings of belonging and embedding in social networks …