International Journal of Globalisation and Small Business (4 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• Emotional intelligence in women leadership: mapping research pathways and insights for global business  
  by Grisna Anggadwita, Bachruddin Saleh Luturlean, Ratri Wahyuningtyas, Arif Partono Prasetio 
  Abstract: This study aims to review and map literature on emotional intelligence in womens leadership, focusing on research trends, emotional intelligence measurement models, leadership styles, and future research directions. Using a bibliometricsystematic literature review (B-SLR), the study combines quantitative and qualitative methods. From the initial 641 articles retrieved from Scopus and Web of Science, 65 relevant articles were selected and examined through content analysis. Our findings indicate fluctuations in publication trends from 2003 to 2025, with a notable peak in 2024. Most studies were published in high-ranking business and management journals, demonstrating the topics global significance. Research predominantly used quantitative methods and focused on individual-level analysis. Sixteen emotional intelligence models and 16 leadership styles relevant to women leaders were identified. The study highlights the need for further research on how emotional intelligence shapes womens leadership in a changing global business context and offers insights to guide future scholarly work.
  Keywords: business landscape; emotional intelligence; gender differences; leadership style; women leadership.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJGSB.2025.10074651
   
  
• Improving the business performance of women's micro and small enterprises: evidence from Indonesia  
  by Ida Puspitowati, Carunia Mulya Firdausy, Sarwo Edy Handoyo, Medelina K. Hendytio 
  Abstract: This study aims to investigate the determining factors to improve womens micro small enterprises (MSEs) business performance in Indonesia. An explanatory sequential design from mixed research methods was applied to analyse the quantitative data of questionnaires and qualitative data from field observation and focus group discussion to help explain or contextualise the quantitative findings. By applying partial least squares-structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM), we found that only access to finance, social networks, and product innovation have direct and significant effects on the business performance of womens MSEs. Furthermore, family support and the adoption of digitalisation have direct effects on product innovation. These two variables also indirectly affected womens MSEs business performance if mediated by product innovation. This study relied on the model constructed and was based on a cross-sectional design where all variables were subjective self-report variables obtained from a single source. Thus, caveats apply.
  Keywords: business performance; family support; access to finance; digital adoption; product innovation; women’s MSEs; Indonesia.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJGSB.2025.10074902
   
  
• Exploring the relevance and useability of academic entrepreneurial research for SMEs  
  by Jalleh Sharafizad, Fleur Sharafizad, Kerry Brown 
  Abstract: Entrepreneurship receives extensive academic attention, with research typically focusing on equipping entrepreneurs with competencies to navigate the challenges and opportunities inherent in entrepreneurial activities. However, whether and how small and medium enterprises (SMEs) adopt these research findings remain unclear. Utilising a systematic literature review, our research outlines key aspects about if and how academic research may be translated to entrepreneurs to achieve practical utility in entrepreneurship. Data from five major databases were analysed using the well-recognised preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA0 method. Findings reveal that while most research offers practical insights, evidence of SME adoption is lacking. The results also suggest limited evidence of potential collaboration between academics and SMEs to inform the research design or assist with measuring the effectiveness of the findings post-research completion. A novel research framework is proposed to guide academics in crafting SME-actionable and practical research designs. This paper represents the first meta-analysis assessing SME entrepreneurs perceptions of academic researchs relevance and usefulness. Theoretical and practical contributions, limitations and directions for future research are outlined.
  Keywords: SMEs; small and medium enterprises; entrepreneurial research; academic research; research relevance; research useability; practical implications.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJGSB.2025.10075096
   
  
• Family SMEs operating in a global market: challenges and triggers towards sustainability and certification  
  by Sara Gransinigh, Giorgio Cantino, Tooleni Loteni Vista Gosbert 
  Abstract: Sustainability strategies offer innovation, resilience, and competitive advantage for family-owned SMEs in global markets. Despite the proactive attitude of these firms, resource constraints, knowledge gaps, and risk aversion hinder effective implementation of sustainability practice. It is thus essential to enhance awareness and support for family-owned SMEs to align with global sustainability norms and regulations. The paper explores how family SMEs tackle sustainability challenges and regulatory compliance, by applying the case study methodology with quantitative and qualitative data. It examines the strategic responses of an Italian internationalised family SME to investigate existing theories and extract practical implications. The findings underscore the importance of external support and standardised management systems in advancing sustainability. Indeed, the case study shows that following standards and obtaining certifications support compliance, risk management, and continuous improvement. It also highlights that the ISO certifications could provide a key strategic asset for differentiation and long-term value creation.
  Keywords: global markets; family-SME; sustainability; case study; corporate sustainability strategy; environmental impacts; greenhouse gases emissions; management systems; ISO standards; certification.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJGSB.2025.10075097