Administrative factors in government SME support programs, entrepreneurial competencies, and access to credit: a case of Nakawa division

Abstract

This study investigated the influence of Program administrative factors in government SME support programs, on Access to credit among SMEs in Nakawa Division, with entrepreneurial competencies as a moderating variable. The study premised on four objectives; to examine the influence of Government Support program operational efficiency on the Access to credit among SMEs in Nakawa Division, to evaluate the influence of Government Support Program Credit Requirements on access to credit among SMEs in Nakawa Division, to evaluate the influence of budget allocation efficiency of the programs on access to credit among SMEs in Nakawa Division and to establish the moderating role of Entrepreneurial competencies on the relationship between Program Administrative Factors on Access to credit financing among SMEs in Nakawa Division. The study employed a cross-sectional and correlational survey research with a quantitative study approach which involved collecting quantitative data from 114 respondents out of a sample of 132 SME owners and managers in Nakawa division, using a survey questionnaire method. Data were analyzed using the statistical package for social science (SSPS Version 27). The study found that program operational efficiency, credit requirements, and budget allocation efficiency significantly enhance Access to credit financing among SMEs in Nakawa Division. Moderation analysis further confirmed that entrepreneurial competencies strengthen these relationships. Entrepreneurial competencies also showed a direct positive effect, particularly in relationship competencies, while conceptual competencies had a negative coefficient, and opportunity competencies were not statistically significant. These findings suggest that SMEs with stronger entrepreneurial skills are better positioned to navigate administrative structures and maximize the benefits of government credit programs. The study therefore, recommends a multifaceted approach to improving government credit financing for SMEs, beginning with enhanced program operational efficiency through digital tracking, simplified procedures, and staff training. It further advises revising credit requirements to be more flexible and transparent, supported by financial literacy training to improve SME uptake. Subject keywords; Access to credit Government SME support programs, Entrepreneurial competencies, Nakawa division