Learning function and small business growth

Small businesses pay more attention to the ability to maintain the long‐term survival of the company because of the high bankruptcy rate in this sector of the economy. This paper analyses the contribution of the learning function to small business growth. Vinten, Lane and Hayes have reported research providing a Western perspective on this issue, and so this is complementary research providing an insight on the Chinese situation. Based on the findings of the interview survey, it provides suggestions about the learning function for small businesses in China.