ROLE OF DIGITAL LITERACY IN ENHANCING SUSTAINABILITY PRACTICES IN SMALL BUSINESSES IN GOMBE STATE

Abstract

Sustainability practices, comprising economic, social, and environmental dimensions, are crucial for the long-term viability and success of small businesses. However, small businesses often face challenges in adopting these practices due to limited resources, inadequate knowledge, and lack of expertise. This study examines the relationship between digital literacy and sustainability practices in small businesses. This study proposes and tests a conceptual model that integrates digital skills, online information search, and digital communication as key dimensions of digital literacy. This study adopted a quantitative survey research design and Yamane's (1967) sample size determination formula was used to arrive at 264. Data were collected using questionnaire and data gathered from the field were analyzed using multiple regression via SPSS version 23.0. Findings from the study revealed that digital skills, online information search, and digital communication have a positive and significant relationship with small business sustainability in Gombe State. The study concludes that digital literacy promotes sustainability in small businesses and therefore recommends that small businesses prioritize digital literacy among their staff to ensure sustainable practices. Future research should conduct a similar study outside the scope of this study to explore cross-cultural variations and develop targeted interventions to enhance digital literacy in small businesses.