Drivers on MSME Performance: A Systematic Review of Literacy, Entrepreneurship Training, Financial Inclusion, and Business

This study investigates the influence of financial literacy, entrepreneurship training, and financial inclusion on the performance of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through business sustainability. Using a systematic literature review (SLR) examines the impact of financial literacy, entrepreneurship training, and financial inclusion on MSME performance through business sustainability mediation by synthesizing empirical data from 12 research (2020–2025) across Scopus and Web of Science. Positive direct effects on sustainability (financial literacy via budgeting/risk management; training via adaptive resilience; inclusiveness via digital access) and performance metrics like profitability/growth are confirmed by results using the PRISMA 2020 flow.  Amid obstacles like financial access restrictions and COVID-19 disruptions, business sustainability appears as a crucial mediator, linking these factors to improved MSME results in developing contexts (Africa, Indonesia). Practical implications compel policymakers to give integrated literacy programs, contextual training, and inclusive finance top priority. Theoretical contributions combine financial literacy, entrepreneurial learning, and sustainability ideas into a holistic mediation model. The results highlight the importance of integrating financial education, entrepreneurial skill development, and inclusive financial systems to strengthen MSME resilience and competitiveness. This study provides practical implications for policymakers, financial institutions, and support organisations in designing effective interventions that foster sustainable business growth. The research also contributes theoretically by confirming the mediating role of business sustainability in the relationship between financial literacy, entrepreneurship training, financial inclusion, and MSME performance. Future studies may expand these insights by examining additional contextual factors such as digital technology adoption and business networking that further support sustainable MSME development.