Background and Objective: Given the importance of the empirical validation of resilience models in explaining and strengthening the survival of small businesses, this study aimed to validate a psychological, social, and cultural resilience model for the survival of small businesses during the growth stage.
Methodology: This study employed a quantitative approach to validate the proposed model. The statistical population consisted of managers and experts associated with small businesses, from whom 225 participants were selected using random sampling. Data were collected using a 99-item questionnaire based on a five-point Likert scale. The reliability of the questionnaire was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha, yielding an overall coefficient of 0.794. Data were analyzed using SPSS and LISREL software through the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and structural equation modeling (SEM).
Findings: The results indicated that the questionnaire demonstrated acceptable internal consistency. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients for the economic and commercial, social, cultural and environmental, organizational and managerial, flexibility and transformation, and strategic and developmental dimensions were 0.79, 0.80, 0.81, 0.79, and 0.78, respectively. Furthermore, confirmatory factor analysis was used to examine the factor structure and construct validity, while structural equation modeling was employed to assess the model’s fit to the empirical data.
Conclusion: Empirical validation of this model can contribute to the development of an evidence-based framework for identifying and strengthening the factors influencing resilience and supporting the survival of small businesses during the growth stage.