Kiribati is one of the five least developed Pacific island nations according to the classification of the United Nations. This article reviews the situation of Kiribati in relation to its development generally but paying particular attention to: Public and private finance; social issues such as...

In Australia, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly rural SMEs, are perceived as being on the wrong side of the digital divide. Government at local and state levels has taken a leading role in the development of electronic marketplaces with an aim of improving SME participation. Many...

This paper argues for a model of a corruption constraint on organizational growth and development in the form of a business ethics glass ceiling. Although the problem of corruption‘s negative impact on economic growth is well documented, this paper‘s contribution is to propose a cohesive...

The adoption of e-business by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in construction lags other service and product businesses within the building sector. Twenty SMEs were studied to establish the drivers and barriers to e-business adoption within construction. Empirical techniques included...

The aim of this chapter was to analyse the potential for innovation and competitiveness of small and medium enterprises in Serbia. Presenting the strategy and the project which are determining the innovation of small and medium enterprise, it is necessary to know their significance for the...

Proactive corporate social responsibility (CSR) involves business practices adopted voluntarily by firms that go beyond regulatory requirements in order to actively support sustainable economic, social and environmental development, and thereby contribute broadly and positively to society. This...

Development of market economy requires issues to improve the business environment and stimulate small and medium enterprise (SME) in crisis and need recovery of investment in Vaslui, Romania.

Based on a survey of 97 firms in the garments, textiles, automotive, electrical and electronics, and food manufacturing industries; the paper highlights the difficulties faced by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in accessing finance. For both firms with access to finance as well as those that...

In the European Union, the Europe 2020 strategy seeks to obtain a smart, sustainable and inclusive economic growth that ensures high levels of employment, productivity and social cohesion. On the other hand, Europe 2020 strategy also supports the overcoming of the current economic crisis, which...

This paper sheds light on the issue of SME financing in selected Asian economies using a unique sample survey. It elaborates on (i) the key sources of external finance for SMEs (ii) the extent to which, if at all, the SME sector as identified by firm size, country and in aggregate for a sample...