Influence of Loan Size on Financial Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in Moshi Municipality
Stanslaus James Nicholaus1, Amembah A. Lamu Amos2, Ladis Komba3
1Stanslaus James Nicholaus, Postgraduate Student, Mwenge Catholic University, Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.
2Dr. Amembah A. Lamu Amos, Lecturer, Mwenge Catholic University, Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.
3Dr. Ladis Komba, Lecturer, Mwenge Catholic University, Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.
Manuscript received on 27 November 2024 | First Revised Manuscript received on 09 October 2024 | Second Revised Manuscript received on 01 April 2025 | Manuscript Accepted on 15 May 2025 | Manuscript published on 30 May 2025 | PP: 35-45 | Volume-5 Issue-1, May 2025 | Retrieval Number: 100.1/ijef.B260004021124 | DOI: 10.54105/ijef.B2600.05010525
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© The Authors. Published by Lattice Science Publication (LSP). This is an open-access article under the CC-BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)
Abstract: The study investigated the influence of loan size on the financial performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Moshi Municipality, Tanzania, focusing on how varying loan amounts impact profitability, solvency, and liquidity. Using a convergent parallel research design grounded in the Theory of Capital Structure, data were collected from 195 respondents out of a target population of 7,600 SMEs. Simple random and purposive sampling techniques were used, and quantitative analysis was conducted to ensure validity and reliability. The findings showed that larger loan sizes generally benefit SME profitability, efficiency, and flexibility. However, the impact of loan sizes on financial performance varied significantly across different businesses due to differences in economic strategies, market conditions, and business models. The regression analysis revealed that loan sizes significantly influence SME financial performance, accounting for approximately 48% of the variance. The study recommends that financial institutions and policymakers develop strategic loan management techniques, including offering a range of loan sizes, providing flexible loan terms, and ensuring accessible collateral requirements to meet the diverse needs of SMEs.
Keywords: Loan Size, Financial Performance, SMEs.
Scope of the Article: Finance