Support forinnovation processesin SMEsrequires a complexinstitutional framework in whichthe essential role is played byregional andlocal institutions. Theresearch is aimed to identify and assess thecooperation of smalland medium enterpriseswithbusiness institutionsin the context ofopen innovation. The study verified positively the research hypothesis: The cooperation of small and medium enterprises with support institutions is at a low level, which is a serious barrier for the further innovative development of these entities in the context of open innovation

Innovation of Polish SMEs is relatively low. There are two main causes of this situation: the low potential of the enterprises (their limited resources) and relatively low innovation openness (open innovation, measured by the tendency for cooperation with the environment - other companies, business or research institutions). The most important (in the process of implementation of innovations) are relationships which are created between “openness” and the innovation potential. The following thesis is widely popular: higher propensity to exchange knowledge (in the range of open innovation conception) contributes to improving innovation potential. Therefore, the main purpose of this article is to determine the existing relations between openness to innovation (open innovation) and innovation potential. The specific objectives include: examining the level of openness of SMEs (measured by propensity for cooperation with the environment), taking into account a number of variables. as well as the correlation (and its strength) between these two elements. The research was conducted in 2013/2014 in the framework of research project: The concept of “open innovation” in small and medium-sized enterprises - models, trends and determinants of development (UMO-2012/07/B/HS4/03085). In order to implement the objectives and verify the research hypotheses, diagnostics was based on conducting direct interviews with selected companies by means of the CATI method using a survey form. The study encompassed the companies which over the last three years conducted innovation activities involving the implementation of innovative solutions in different areas

Objective: The paper aims to assess the use of the potential of business environment institutions to support SMEs in the light of the author's own research. Research Design & Methods: The author's study was carried out in 2012-2014 in two stages: quantitative research (a survey on the sample of 590 SMEs) conducted with the use of the PAPI and CAWI methods based on a survey questionnaire and qualitative research conducted among 10 representatives of business environment institutions with the use of in-depth interviews (IDI) based on a questionnaire with a standard list of information sought. Findings: The study results suggest that the role of business environment institutions in the development of small and medium-sized enterprises in the present conditions is small. This is a result of, on the one hand, little interest of SMEs in the support offered by these institutions, and, on the other hand, the fact that frequently the services offered do not meet the needs of enterprises. Implications & Recommendations: To improve the situation, on the part of business environment institutions, it is necessary to update information on the scope of cooperation, undertake extensive promotional activities, adjust the offer to the needs of enterprises and expand cooperation, especially by providing financial support for enterprises. Contribution & Value Added: The study can be used for in-depth analyses of support for the SMEs provided by business environment institutions. It can be also useful for decision-makers responsible for creating development policies.

Journal of Entrepreneurship, Management and Innovation

One of the biggest challenges of a modern enterprise is finding a balance between achieving environmental goals and being competitive in the era of Industry 4.0 requirements. The digital revolution is forcing companies to overcome various challenges that contribute to reducing energy consumption. Micro and small enterprises carry out activities in the field of energy efficiency by implementing measures to save energy and reduce total energy consumption. However, these activities are limited by many barriers to resources, which means that these activities are much smaller than those in large companies. The purpose of this study was to assess the performance of micro and small enterprises following environmental objectives in improving energy efficiency. The research study, based on a structured and standardized survey questionnaire, was conducted with the use of the CATI technique between April and May 2022 among the owners of micro and small enterprises operating in Poland. The study showed that: (a) the activities of Polish micro- and small-sized companies were aimed at improving energy efficiency through the implementation of environmental objectives; (b) the operation of enterprises in accordance with contemporary environmental requirements improved energy efficiency; and (c) Polish micro- and small-scale enterprises took actions in compliance with environmental requirements.

The energy transition is one of humanity’s most significant challenges. All micro, small, medium, and large enterprises will have to face it, and some are already making progress. This paper focuses on the involvement of the smallest actors in the energy transition. Micro and small enterprises comprise the largest part of the economy and significantly impact its development. Concerning the broad scope of their activities, these entities are characterized by a specific owner–manager relationship. This means that the final decision is influenced by business objectives, the manager’s approach, their awareness of change, and personal and other factors. Based on the analysis of data from 400 companies, it was found that the involvement of micro and small enterprises in the energy transition is related to their market and financial success.