Building Sustainable and Tech-Driven SMEs: Strategies for Growth, Resilience, and Innovation

Dear Colleagues,

Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) play a crucial role in the global economy, representing approximately 90% of businesses worldwide and contributing around 50% of global GDP (United Nations, 2023). Despite their economic significance, SMEs, especially micro and family-owned enterprises, face significant challenges in developing sustainable business models that integrate technology, innovation, and resilience. Many of these businesses struggle with limited knowledge, financial constraints, and a lack of access to high-level consulting services that larger corporations benefit from. This knowledge gap results in inefficient business management, poor financial planning, and a higher risk of failure.

The rapid technological advancements and shifting economic landscapes further highlight the need for SMEs to adopt sustainable and adaptive business strategies. The digital transformation of businesses, driven by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and cloud computing, presents both opportunities and challenges for small enterprises. However, many SMEs lack the resources and expertise required to implement these technologies effectively. Consequently, their ability to scale, compete, and remain resilient in volatile markets is significantly hindered.

Furthermore, SMEs are integral to achieving global sustainability goals, particularly in fostering responsible consumption and production patterns, reducing environmental footprints, and supporting the transition to a circular economy. The integration of green business practices is becoming increasingly essential, yet many SMEs perceive sustainability initiatives as costly and difficult to implement due to financial and operational constraints. A well-structured, accessible, and technology-driven business model is essential to support SMEs in overcoming these barriers and embedding sustainability into their core operations.

Another critical factor influencing SME sustainability is the unique nature of family-owned enterprises. These businesses, often characterized by strong personal and cultural ties, face additional psychosocial challenges, including succession planning, leadership development, and intergenerational conflicts. Without clear governance structures and strategic planning, many family businesses struggle to achieve long-term stability and growth. Thus, addressing leadership and managerial capacity within SMEs is vital for fostering innovation, resilience, and sustainable development.

Given these pressing challenges, this Special Issue seeks to explore innovative frameworks, methodologies, and case studies that examine how SMEs can adopt sustainable business models, leverage technology effectively, and navigate the complexities of family ownership and entrepreneurial development. By gathering empirical research, theoretical frameworks, and practical insights, we seek to provide valuable contributions to the academic and business communities striving to support SMEs in their journey toward long-term success. The focus will be on practical and theoretical contributions that offer insights into enhancing SME sustainability, competitiveness, and long-term success. Also, literature reviews of the abovementioned issues are welcome.

Key areas of focus include but are not limited to:

• Adoption of Sustainable Technologies: Investigating how SMEs can integrate green technologies and sustainable practices to enhance operational efficiency and environmental responsibility.
• Circular Economy Implementation: Exploring strategies for SMEs to transition from linear production models to circular ones, thereby reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
• Family Business Dynamics: Analyzing the unique challenges and opportunities inherent in family-owned SMEs, including succession planning, governance, and the balance between tradition and innovation.
• Technological Innovation and Digitalization: Examining strategies for SMEs to leverage digital tools and technologies to remain competitive and sustainable in a rapidly evolving market.
• Case Studies of Successful Adaptation: Presenting examples of family-owned SMEs that have successfully navigated the integration of sustainability and technology, highlighting best practices and lessons learned.
• Sustainable Business Models for SMEs: Strategies and frameworks for integrating sustainability into small businesses.
• Digital Transformation and Technology Adoption: The role of AI, blockchain, and digital tools in SME development.
• Family-Owned Business Management: Challenges and strategies for succession planning, leadership, and governance.
• Entrepreneurial Resilience and Adaptation: How SMEs can develop agility and resilience in uncertain markets.
• Green Innovation: Implementing eco-friendly practices and sustainable production in SMEs.
• Access to Knowledge and Capacity Building: Bridging the knowledge gap through education, training, and consulting support.
• Financial Sustainability and Investment Strategies: Overcoming financial barriers and accessing funding for SME growth.
• Policy and Institutional Support for SMEs: Government policies and programs that promote SME sustainability.
• Workforce Development and Leadership Skills: Enhancing leadership and managerial skills for SME success.
• Psychosocial Challenges in Family Businesses: Addressing cultural and interpersonal factors affecting SME sustainability.

I look forward to receiving your contributions.

Prof. Dr. Raquel Pérez-Estébanez
Guest Editor

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• SMEs
• sustainable business models
• SME digital transformation
• family-owned enterprises
• entrepreneurial sustainability
• technology adoption in SMEs
• circular economy for SMEs
• small business resilience