Technological innovation capabilities of small and medium-sized enterprises

Abstract

Purpose: The research objective of the article is to develop a model that indicates significant, from the perspective of introducing technological innovations by Polish small and medium-sized enterprises, internal factors that make up the company's innovation capability and build their competitive position. Design/methodology/approach: The company’s innovation capability can be divided on seven specific sub-capabilities, research and development, manufacturing, organizational, marketing, logistics, human factor and strategy. We also included some contextual factors in the model. Empirical studies were conducted in 2015, using the CAPI method, on the representative sample of 250 small and medium-sized enterprises. The analysis and assessment we based on the results of the ordered logit regression model estimation. Findings: The obtained results indicate the significance of 19 variables from all specific capabilities and contextual factors. Their impact proved to be both positive and negative. Practical Implications: The identified elements of innovation capability of small and medium-sized enterprises may be a recommendation for small and medium-sized enterprises’ managers. Originality/value: Determination of key elements of technological innovation capability of Polish small and medium-sized enterprises. The results can be compared with those obtained for other countries.