MODERATING EFFECT OF BUSINESS SUPPORT NETWORKS ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DIGITAL PLATFORM UTILIZATION AND DIGITAL COMPETENCIES ON WOMEN’S BUSINESS PERFORMANCE IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examines the interplay between digital platform utilization, digital competencies, and business support networks in enhancing women’s business performance in Nigeria. Despite the potential of digital platforms to drive business growth, women entrepreneurs face significant barriers, including limited digital literacy and access to supportive networks, which hinder their ability to leverage these tools effectively. Using a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 329 female owned business in Lagos, Nigeria, through an online questionnaire. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed to analyze the relationships. The findings reveal that digital platform utilization and digital competencies positively influence women’s business performance. Business support networks exert a strong direct effect and significantly moderate the relationships between digital platform utilization and digital competencies with business performance. These results underscore the critical role of supportive networks in amplifying the impact of digital tools and skills. The study recommends that policymakers and stakeholders invest in digital literacy programs and foster robust business support ecosystems to empower female businesses. By addressing these barriers, Nigeria can enhance women’s business success, contributing to economic growth and gender equality.