Research Trends in Sustainable Performance, ESG, and SMEs

A Bibliometric Analysis and Systematic Literature Review (2000–2025)

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29105/vtga12.4-1359

Keywords:

Sustainable performance, ESG performance, SMEs

Abstract

This study examines the evolution of research on sustainable performance and ESG performance in SMEs based on articles indexed in Scopus (2000-2025). Using bibliometric techniques, it identifies a significant increase in publications after 2020, with Asia and Europe as the main generators of knowledge. Topics such as digitalization, green financial inclusion, and transformational leadership also emerge. The study offers a global overview of the state of the art and highlights gaps in Latin America, where the topic is still largely unexplored. It also presents a systematic analysis of the 5 most cited articles in Scopus on the subject, highlighting their fundamental role in the conceptualization, application, and identification of key elements.

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References

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Published

2026-07-31

How to Cite

Villarreal-Vera, V. (2026). Research Trends in Sustainable Performance, ESG, and SMEs: A Bibliometric Analysis and Systematic Literature Review (2000–2025). Vinculategica Efan, 12(4), 46–68. https://doi.org/10.29105/vtga12.4-1359