Factors Affecting the Performance of Small Business Start-Ups Under Tunas Mekar Programme

This study scrutinises the factors that influence the performance of small business undertaken by graduates in the early stages of operation. Based on multiple regression analysis, the study shows that entrepreneurial characteristics, management practices and training and guidance have significant influence on the performance of small business start-ups. The experience of the business and the amount of initial capital are not significant to the performance of small enterprises at that stage. The findings have implications not only on the theory of the firm and human capital theory but also on small entrepreneurs, policymakers and implementers and researchers.