Dr Samuel Mwaura

Area of Expertise

Through my research, I have gained expertise in the following areas:

• Entrepreneurial ecosystems
• Regional enterprise and economic development policy
• Evaluation of SME performance and growth
• Enterprise finance
• Diversity (intersectionality) and entrepreneurship
• Entrepreneurship and household economic wellbeing
• Innovation and it's impact on firm performance
• Entrepreneurship in developing countries
• Cultural and creative industries
• Social capital, networks, and industrial clusters

Methodologically, I have expertise using both quantitative and qualitative approaches. I have used large datasets as well as designed and conducted surveys in my research. Analytically, I use various multi-variate regression techniques as well as GIS mapping. Qualitatively, I have also carried out and analysed in-depth interviews.

My research has generally been multi-disciplinary, collaborative (including with policymakers), and geared towards generating practical implications and impact on business practice and public policy. I therefore have experience interacting resourcefully with academic colleagues from other disciplines as well as policy-makers and the business community leading to informed changes in policy (e.g. regional development policy) and business strategy and practice. In addition, participation in a variety of public engagement events has allowed me to gain expertise in adaptable knowledge dissemination techniques, including radio and TV interviews.