Abstract

This paper explores the interconnection between entrepreneurial leadership and the radical innovation performance of SMEs in China’s web development industry. Applying RBV theory and a quantitative research design with Smart PLS analysis results in an inquiry of entrepreneurial leadership’s impact on innovative outcomes. A quantitative research design was chosen, using SmartPLS 4.0, with the sample population being Chinese internet industry employees working for SMEs. The sample was made up of 268 employees working in Internet related SMEs in China. The study has demonstrated a notable and positive link between entrepreneurial leadership and radical innovation performance, thus highlighting the crucial role of this function in promoting innovation among the highly competitive Chinese Internet possessions. This study highlights the most important moderating role of entrepreneurial orientation which is its being a mental bridge between entrepreneurial leadership and radical innovation outcomes. The research further gives an insight into the rising relationship between entrepreneurial leadership and entrepreneurial orientation as a result of the moderating effect of power distance within Chinese internet SMEs. Thus, this research provides important information for Chinese Internet small and medium-sized enterprises that intend to increase their radical innovation capacity. It is a blueprint for organizational development and leadership which are the key factors needed to foster the sustainable growth of the internet industry in this dynamic environment.