Empowering MSMEs through Strategy Marketing

Reassessing Pathways to Distribution Financing and Digital Transformation

Abstract

Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) often encounter financing constraints despite their economic importance. This study examines associations between strategic marketing, digital transformation, and financing distribution among 399 MSME respondents in Palembang, Indonesia. A structured survey was analysed using SPSS, reliability tests, regression, and path analysis. The reported results indicate statistically significant positive associations between strategic marketing and digital transformation (β = 0.630, p < 0.001), and between strategic marketing and financing distribution (β = 0.754, p < 0.001). The source manuscript also reports an indirect pathway through digital transformation, although inconsistencies among the stated path estimates require verification before the mediation claim can be considered conclusive. The findings suggest that marketing capabilities and digital business processes may jointly support MSMEs’ financing readiness. They also highlight the need for stronger transaction records, greater digital literacy, and coordinated support from financial intermediaries and policymakers. The study contributes a context-specific framework connecting marketing strategy, digital capabilities, business credibility, and access to finance.