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The study sought to investigate the relationship social networking construct and firm performance. A quantitative research design was employed, whereby data were collected, analyzed and presented using quantitative techniques. Primary data was collected directly from the respondents who are intrapreneurs employed in small and medium bakery and beverage manufacturing firms in Kampala Uganda. The results show a significant and positive relationship between social networks and firm performance (r=.521**, p<.01). This implies that, adhering to and implementing the advice and other information from the professionals, experienced business associates and colleagues will enhance the level of performance of the small scale manufacturing businesses. Further, regression results show that social networks predicted firm performance (Beta = .445, Sig=000). This study posits that social networks can be a cost-effective way of improving small firms’ performance, particularly manufacturing firms. It can therefore be recommended that, small firms support information exchange and resource sharing within and without the business through building blocks that enhance trust amongst its employees. This can be inexpensive method of finding out more efficient ways of operating thus improved firm performance.

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With only 28% of the population having access to electricity, Uganda presents a huge market potential for alternative technologies to provide electricity such as solar PV systems. Using a simple statistical method (neighbourhood approach), this study estimates the market potential for solar PV in households based on a 2018 National Electrification Survey dataset collected by Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS). Results show that approximately 5.3 million households lack access to electricity, thus the total market potential. Over 60% of households lack access to electricity due to supply-side gaps (also known as absence of coverage) while the rest of the households have coverage but lack access due to demand side limitations (also known as no uptake). On the contrary, our results suggest that supply-side gaps constitute the biggest proportion of electricity access deficit in Uganda’s households. Implying that these households may be willing and have the ability to pay but lack supply, thus these households constitute an immediate market potential for solar PV systems. To address the electricity access deficit, private solar companies should target unserved households with appropriate systems/products and innovative business models to suit their needs. Government on the other hand should subsidize households with affordability challenges or enhance their income.

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