Effect of Knowledge Transfer and Spillover on Product Innovativeness: The Case of Manufacturing Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of  knowledge transfer and spillover on product innovativeness (PI) in the context of manufacturing SMEs. in Kisumu, Kenya. To answer the questions this empirical study raised, a sample of 126 MSEs on the basis of the manufacturing hubs of Kisumu, Kenya. This study provided evidence in support of knowledge transfer and on the  contrary, knowledge  spillover on PI. Further research is needed to confirm and extend the present results by replicating the principal features of this study with MSEs in other regions within Kenya. The conclusions drawn from this study could inform efforts in designing different knowledge transfer supportive actions for different   manufacturing MSEs based on their product knowledge gaps within the wider innovation policy initiatives.

Keywords: Small and medium-sized enterprises, Manufacturing, knowledge transfer and  spillover,  Product Innovativeness, Kenya