Leveraging ecosystems to integrate Tshivenda indigenous knowledge systems for small and medium enterprise sustainability

Orientation: Indigenous communities possess deep knowledge of local environments, which allows them to contribute valuable insights to resource management, conservation and ethical business practices. This study integrates knowledge management with business strategic management to explore the intersection of Tshivenda Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) and business ecosystems. Research purpose: To understand how indigenous African communities, who possess deep knowledge of local environments, can contribute valuable insights to resource management, conservation and ethical business models through the adoption of IKS. Motivation for the study: The study aimed to identify essentials within small and medium enterprise (SME) business ecosystems that support business sustainability through IKS adoption. Research design, approach and method: The study used a qualitative research methodology, employing a two-round Delphi technique. The Delphi panel consisted of seven purposively selected experts in Tshivenda IKS, SME African business and business sustainability. The panel reached consensus by agreement on proposition wording to establish ecosystem elements based on Tshivenda IKS for resource use by agriculture, forestry and healthcare SMEs. Main findings: The study identifies nine IKS propositions as declarative statements of relationships necessary between SME strategy and Tshivenda IKS to enhance resource usage in a business ecosystem. Practical/managerial implications: The study concludes that integrating IKS into business practices is crucial, as acknowledging IKS practised by the local communities has value in creating sustainability. Contribution/value-add: Business ecosystems, made up of interconnected micro, market and macro-environmental factors, can benefit from IKS considerations. By integrating IKS, businesses can have more sustainable, culturally respectful practices that enhance environmental stewardship and collaboration.