Authors :
Samuel Koroma; Joseph Davies; Mohamed Sallu Turay
Volume/Issue :
Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 3 - March
Google Scholar :
https://tinyurl.com/57972r9k
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26mar1645
Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.
Abstract :
In recent years, the role of commercial banks in fostering entrepreneurship has gained significant attention,
particularly in developing economies where access to financial services is limited. This study examines the importance of
banking concepts in supporting entrepreneurial activities, with a specific focus on the impact of commercial banks on
entrepreneurship in Sierra Leone. Using a case study approach, the research explores how financial inclusion, access to
credit, and banking services influence the growth and sustainability of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the country.
The findings reveal that commercial banks play a crucial role in enabling entrepreneurs to access the necessary financial
resources, thereby enhancing business viability and economic development. However, challenges such as limited financial
literacy, inadequate infrastructure, and regulatory barriers remain significant obstacles to effective banking support for
entrepreneurship. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on the intersection of banking and
entrepreneurship, highlighting the need for policy interventions that enhance financial inclusion and support
entrepreneurial ecosystems in Sierra Leone and similar developing contexts. The results underscore the importance of
strengthening the relationship between commercial banks and entrepreneurs to promote sustainable economic growth and
poverty reduction.
References :
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- Athanasoglou, P.P, Brissimis, S. N., and Delis, M. D. (2008) Bank-specific, Industry-specific and Macroeconomic determinants of Bank Profitability, 2nd edition, Oxford: Blackwell Publishing.
- Bank of Sierra Leone. (2006) Banking Supervision Annual Report, Sierra Leone: Bank of Sierra Leone.
- Blumberg, B., Cooper, D. R., and Schindler, P. S. (2005) Business Research Methods, Berkshire: McGraw-Hill.
- The Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB) Ltd... (2006) Annual Report of the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank Ltd., Sierra Leone: Sierra Leone Commercial Bank.
- The Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB) Ltd.... (2007) Annual Report of the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank Ltd., Sierra Leone: Sierra Leone Commercial Bank.
- The Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB) Ltd.... (2008) Annual Report of the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank Ltd., Sierra Leone: Sierra Leone Commercial Bank.
- The Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB) Ltd.... (2009) Annual Report of the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank Ltd., Sierra Leone: Sierra Leone Commercial Bank.
- Yin, R. K. (2009) Case Study Research: Design and Methods (Applied Social Research Methods, 4th edition, California: Sage Publications Inc.
In recent years, the role of commercial banks in fostering entrepreneurship has gained significant attention,
particularly in developing economies where access to financial services is limited. This study examines the importance of
banking concepts in supporting entrepreneurial activities, with a specific focus on the impact of commercial banks on
entrepreneurship in Sierra Leone. Using a case study approach, the research explores how financial inclusion, access to
credit, and banking services influence the growth and sustainability of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the country.
The findings reveal that commercial banks play a crucial role in enabling entrepreneurs to access the necessary financial
resources, thereby enhancing business viability and economic development. However, challenges such as limited financial
literacy, inadequate infrastructure, and regulatory barriers remain significant obstacles to effective banking support for
entrepreneurship. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on the intersection of banking and
entrepreneurship, highlighting the need for policy interventions that enhance financial inclusion and support
entrepreneurial ecosystems in Sierra Leone and similar developing contexts. The results underscore the importance of
strengthening the relationship between commercial banks and entrepreneurs to promote sustainable economic growth and
poverty reduction.