Abstract:
This study was anchored on a postpositivism paradigm and the Theory of perceived attributes and individual
innovativeness, regarding the multiple serial mediations of attitudinal and behavioral competencies in the
relationship between the entrepreneurs’ experience and firm innovativeness. To test the hypothesized
relationship a cross-sectional design and qualitative approach were employed. The study drew on a sample of
698 Micro and Small-scale entrepreneurs in Western Kenya. Questionnaires were the main data collection tools.
Results indicate that entrepreneurial attitudinal and behavioral competencies had a mediating effect on the
relationship between the entrepreneurs' experience and firm innovativeness among adult women entrepreneurs
while among youth men were partial mediation. The direct effect of entrepreneurial experience on the level of
innovativeness was significant for youth respondents but not adult women respondents. This study identifies
entrepreneurial attitudinal and behavioral competencies as critical inputs for enhancing firm innovativeness
hence, appropriate supportive policies and programmes are required.
