Entrepreneurial Bricolage in SMEs: Exploring the Interplay of Divergent Thinking, Self-Efficacy, and Gender Dynamics

Abstract

This study examines the relationships between divergent thinking, self-efficacy, and entrepreneurial bricolage in Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), with a
particular focus on the moderating role of gender. The research addresses a critical
gap in understanding how cognitive processes interact with demographic factors to
influence resourceful entrepreneurial behaviors, particularly in developing economy contexts where SMEs face persistent resource constraints. Adopting a quantitative approach, data were collected from 352 SME owners in Sri Lanka and analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). The findings reveal that both divergent thinking and self-efficacy have significant positive effects on
entrepreneurial bricolage, while gender does not significantly moderate these relationships. These results underscore the centrality of creativity and confidence in fostering adaptive resource utilization, regardless of gender. This study makes three key contributions. First, it extends entrepreneurial bricolage theory by empirically linking two core cognitive capabilities—divergent thinking and self-efficacy—to bricolage behavior. Second, it addresses a methodological and contextual gap by applying advanced structural modelling techniques to SMEs in a developing economy, offering evidence from a setting where bricolage is a strategic necessity. Third, it enriches gender and entrepreneurship literature by empirically testing the moderating role of gender, clarifying its limited influence in this context. The findings provide actionable insights for policymakers, entrepreneurship trainers, and SME support organizations to design interventions that cultivate creativity and self-belief among entrepreneurs, ultimately enhancing SME resilience and sustainability.