SME finance gapOngoing
SME Finance
World Bank
SMEs are central to economies and employment but face major financing constraints.
Why it matters to this study
Establishes the dominant access-to-finance narrative.
Research Library
The evidence base
A structured, growing library of the literature this research builds on — from the SME finance gap to management practices and capital absorption. Each entry notes why it matters to the study.
MSME finance2017
MSME Finance Gap
International Finance Corporation (IFC)
Documents the scale of the MSME financing gap in emerging markets.
Why it matters to this study
Supports the case that SME finance remains a major development priority.
Management practices2010
Why Do Management Practices Differ Across Firms and Countries?
Nicholas Bloom & John Van Reenen
Shows that management practices are associated with firm productivity and performance.
Why it matters to this study
Supports the argument that management capability is a real driver of firm outcomes.
Business practices2017
Business Practices in Small Firms in Developing Countries
David McKenzie & Christopher Woodruff
Measures business practices such as marketing, stock-keeping, record-keeping, and financial planning.
Why it matters to this study
Provides a foundation for measuring management capital.
Digital MSME banking2022
MSME Banking in the Digital Era
International Finance Corporation (IFC)
Explores how banks can serve MSMEs using digital tools and advanced lending strategies.
Why it matters to this study
Shows opportunity to combine SME finance with better diagnostics.
African management capability2019
Poor Management and African Development
CEPR / PEDL
Discusses the role of management skills in African productivity and development.
Why it matters to this study
Supports the research gap around management practices in African contexts.