Canadian SMEs and Globalization: Success Factors and Challenges

Canada’s future success may depend on the ability of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to take advantage of global opportunities. Moreover, the success of larger companies may depend on how well they integrate SMEs into their supply chains.

This report is one of the few studies to examine the way SMEs are responding to the challenges and opportunities posed by globalization. It marshals the latest evidence and ranks the top obstacles SMEs face, including those arising from the increasing use of global supply chains. It also highlights some characteristics of globally successful SMEs, some of which run counter to common wisdom. The report identifies areas—such as management attributes, market entry strategy and investment—that may be critical to SME success but tend to be ignored in most SME research and policy.

This report was produced by the Conference Board’s International Trade and Investment Centre that examines the implications of global economic dynamics for Canadian business and governments leaders. Learn more about the Centre’s research, events, and membership.