Exploring the Effects of Entrepreneurship Training on SME Growth: A Case Study of Metal Fabrication Apprenticeships Along Katima Mulilo Road, Lusaka, Zambia

The effective identification and mitigation of factors influencing small and medium enterprise (SME) growth is crucial for enhancing economic development and youth employment in urban informal economies. This study explored the effects of entrepreneurship training on SME growth within informal metal fabrication apprenticeships along Katima Mulilo Road, Lusaka, Zambia. The research aimed to assess the influence of entrepreneurship training on financial literacy; examine its impact on business management practices; identify perceived barriers and enablers to training application; and investigate the moderating role of demographic factors on training effectiveness. A mixed-methods case study design was employed, utilizing a sample of 70 youth-led SME operators selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires and interviews, and analyzed through descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and thematic analysis. The findings revealed a strong positive association between entrepreneurship training and improved financial literacy, with trained respondents significantly more likely to engage in budgeting, expense tracking, and profit reinvestment. Training also enhanced business management practices, including costing, inventory control, and customer engagement. Key barriers to applying training included limited access to capital, mentorship gaps, and market access issues, while enablers were peer support, relevant training content, and access to workspace. Demographic factors such as age, education level, and business experience significantly moderated training application and outcomes. The study concluded that structured entrepreneurship training, when context-sensitive and paired with enabling resources, can substantially strengthen the operational and financial capabilities of informal metal fabrication SMEs. Sustainable SME growth requires integrated interventions that combine targeted business education, mentorship, improved market access, and demographic-tailored support mechanisms to foster resilient, growth-oriented enterprises in Zambia's informal manufacturing sector.