Entrepreneurial Orientation and Competitive Advantage: The Mediating Role of Knowledge Sharing in Enterprises

Abstract

This study investigates how entrepreneurial orientation (EO) translates into competitive advantage (CA) and examines whether knowledge sharing (KS) functions as a mediating mechanism in this relationship. Although prior research has widely confirmed the positive association between EO and organizational performance, the internal processes through which entrepreneurial posture generates competitive value remain insufficiently explored. In particular, integrating entrepreneurship theory with the knowledge-based view (KBV) of the firm calls for a deeper understanding of how strategic orientation is translated into sustainable CA through organizational knowledge processes. Drawing on the KBV and entrepreneurship literature, this study develops and empirically tests a model linking EO, KS, and CA. EO is conceptualized as a multidimensional construct encompassing innovativeness, proactiveness, and risk-taking, whereas KS is viewed as a key organizational process that enables the diffusion and integration of knowledge. The research is based on data collected through a CAWI survey conducted in 2026 among 256 enterprises operating in Poland. All constructs were measured using validated multi-item scales assessed on a five-point Likert scale. The proposed hypotheses were tested using structural equation modeling with bootstrapping. The results demonstrate that EO has a significant positive effect on both KS and CA. KS also positively influences CA and partially mediates the relationship between EO and CA. These findings suggest that EO enhances competitiveness not only directly, through strategic posture and opportunity exploitation, but also indirectly, through intensified knowledge-sharing processes that enable organizational learning and capability development. The study contributes to the literature by integrating entrepreneurship and knowledge management perspectives and by identifying KS as a key organizational mechanism linking EO with CA. The findings extend prior research by providing empirical evidence from enterprises operating in Central Europe. From a managerial perspective, the results highlight the importance of aligning entrepreneurial initiatives with a supportive knowledge-sharing climate to achieve sustainable competitive outcomes.