This study investigates how a proactive learning culture (PLC) - a higher-order strategic orientation that integrates market, entrepreneurial, and learning orientations–affects the performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in a challenging and uncertain environment. Specifically, the study explores the mediating role of innovative capability (IC) in this relationship, drawing on the dynamic capabilities and first-mover advantage perspectives.
The study utilizes survey data from 568 Russian SMEs, collected during a period of economic sanctions and instability. PLS-SEM is employed to test the hypothesized relationships between PLC, IC, and SME performance.
The results confirm that PLC significantly enhances SME performance in turbulent environments. Moreover, innovative capability is shown to be a significant partial mediator, suggesting that while PLC directly influences performance, its effects are amplified through increased innovation capacity.
This research makes several contributions: (1) it advances the conceptualization of PLC as a higher-order dynamic capability; (2) it identifies innovative capability as a key mechanism translating PLC into performance gains; and (3) it extends understanding of SME resilience in high-uncertainty contexts. The study enriches both theoretical frameworks and offers actionable insights for SMEs seeking to build innovation-driven strategies in volatile markets.
