Linking responsible innovation and nonfinancial reporting: evidence from manufacturing SMEs

For small-and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), engagement in nonfinancial reporting (NFR) often reflects a commitment to accountability, yet the engagement in NFR remains lower than that of large firms. Given SMEs' widespread presence across markets, clarifying the determinants of their reporting behaviour is a relevant research objective. Guided by an integrated framework that combines stakeholder theory (ST) with dynamic capability theory (DCT), this study assesses whether responsible innovation (RI) raises SMEs' propensity to engage in NFR. Environmental innovation ambidexterity (EIA) and entrepreneurial orientation (EO) are modelled as mediators, while stakeholder pressure is posited as an antecedent to RI. Survey data from 559 SME managers are analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The structural estimates reveal a positive association between RI and NFR engagement. RI also stimulates both EIA and EO, and each mediator exhibits a significant indirect effect on NFR. Stakeholder pressure displays a substantive positive link with RI. These findings extend current discussions on SME sustainability disclosure by highlighting the relevance of RI and its capability-based mechanisms.