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Future Readiness of SMEs: Summary

Core Content

This white paper by the World Economic Forum explores the concept of future readiness in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and mid-sized companies. It emphasizes the critical role SMEs play in driving sustainable growth, societal impact, and adaptive capacity in the face of global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, technological disruption, and socioeconomic stratification.

The report highlights that while large corporations often dominate discussions on sustainability and innovation, SMEs are equally, if not more, important in shaping the future of the global economy and social progress. The paper aims to provide a global assessment of SME future readiness and to inspire SMEs to become major drivers of sustainable and inclusive growth.

Main Viewpoints

• Future readiness is defined as the set of organizational capabilities and orientations that allow SMEs to respond effectively to shocks and opportunities arising from constant disruption.
• The three core characteristics of future-ready SMEs are:
  • Sustainable growth: Generating long-term financial strength through innovative business models, products, and services.
  • Societal impact: Addressing both positive and negative externalities and contributing positively to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals.
  • Adaptive capacity: Demonstrating resilience and agility to navigate volatility and seize opportunities.
• The report identifies three main drivers of future readiness:
  • Orientation: The culture and decision-making style of an organization.
  • Business model flexibility: The ability to adapt strategic plans and operations.
  • Networks: Formal and informal professional relationships that support business effectiveness and impact.

Key Highlights

• Challenges for SMEs:
  • Talent acquisition and retention (52.5%)
  • Survival and expansion (43.8%)
  • Funding and access to capital (35.7%)
  • Non-supportive policy environment (21%)
  • Maintaining a strong culture and company purpose (20%)
• Global assessment findings:
  • There are no significant regional or industry differences in SME future readiness.
  • SMEs are not inherently disadvantaged by their size or location.
  • Internal orientation and external networks are the key differentiators that allow SMEs to be future-ready.
• Opportunities:
  • The changing economic landscape allows SMEs to transform crises into opportunities.
  • Technology and innovative business models are essential tools for SMEs to enhance their future readiness.
  • Policy and regulatory frameworks are crucial for enabling SMEs to thrive and contribute to sustainable development.

Case Studies

The report features nine case studies from diverse regions and industries, showcasing how SMEs and mid-sized companies can be future-ready:

These companies demonstrate how innovative strategies, strong networks, and clear orientation can help SMEs achieve long-term sustainability and positive societal impact.

The Way Forward

• SMEs need to focus on core dimensions of future readiness: sustainable growth, societal impact, and adaptive capacity.
• Supporting infrastructure and regulatory frameworks are vital for SMEs to thrive and contribute to global sustainability and prosperity.
• The report encourages policy-makers and industry leaders to recognize the potential of SMEs and create an environment that fosters innovation, resilience, and inclusive growth.

Conclusion

The paper concludes that SMEs are not only capable but also essential in driving sustainable and inclusive economic growth. By leveraging their size, networks, people, and technology, SMEs can become major contributors to the global economy and social progress. Future readiness is not just a goal but a strategic imperative for SMEs to remain competitive and impactful in a rapidly changing world.