KISOI KEVIN MUSYOKA2026-07-272024-08https://repository.mua.ac.ke/handle/123456789/3247Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) significantly benefit from insurance coverage, particularly through protection and risk transfer. However, a substantial gap exists in understanding the factors that influence the adoption and growth of insurance products within this sector. Despite the evident advantages, the growth of insurance among SMEs remains relatively low compared to larger corporations. This raises concerns about the factors shaping SMEs' decisions regarding insurance coverage. This study specifically focused on Kenya's leather enterprises, aiming to recognize and evaluate the factors influencing the growth of insurance in SMEs. The study's objectives were to examine the impact of risk management, the nature of products, information and communication technology (ICT), and reputation on insurance growth. Using a descriptive research design, the study targeted 400 management-level employees at the Leather Industries of Kenya. Stratified random sampling selected 40 respondents, and data were collected via structured questionnaires. The findings revealed that 41% of respondents believe risk management affects insurance product growth to a great extent, while 28% see a moderate impact. This suggests that risk management is a critical factor in driving insurance growth. In terms of product nature, 87% of respondents agreed that it affects growth, with 44% believing it has a great extent of impact. Regarding Information and Communication Technology (ICT), 90% of respondents felt it positively impacts insurance growth, with 33% perceiving a great extent of influence. However, 17% believed ICT has no effect, reflecting varying levels of adoption and integration. Finally, reputation was seen as a crucial determinant of insurance growth, with 83% of respondents acknowledging its significance. Among them, 41% believed reputation affects growth to a great extent. In conclusion, risk management, the nature of insurance products, ICT, and reputation are key factors influencing insurance growth in SMEs. To enhance insurance penetration, companies should focus on robust risk management, product development, improving ICT infrastructure, and actively managing their reputation. Future research should investigate the role of digital platforms in building trust and compare traditional and new insurance models.Working Paper