Open innovation as a competitiveness strategy for SMEs

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Jara-Álvarez, Gonzalo Xavier
Custode-Quiñonez, Johanna
Santander-Salmon, Erika Stephania

Abstract

This study comprehensively analyzes the conceptual evolution of open innovation as a strategy to increase the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises. Through a systematic literature review of literature published between 2009 and 2024 in recognized academic databases, the critical factors that determine the adoption of interorganizational collaboration practices were identified. The results show that, although open innovation allows SMEs to access external knowledge and resources, its implementation faces significant financial, cultural and legal barriers that limit its effectiveness. The scarcity of resources, organizational resistance to sharing strategic information and perceived intellectual property risks are found to hinder the consolidation of these practices. In conclusion, it highlights the need for comprehensive interventions that strengthen internal capabilities, transform corporate culture and mitigate legal risks to take full advantage of this approach.

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Author Biographies

Jara-Álvarez, Gonzalo Xavier, Universidad Técnica Luis Vargas Torres de Esmeraldas

Executive Business Technician, Business Administrator Technologist and Engineer in Business and Business Administration from Universidad Regional Autónoma de los Andes - UNIANDES. Master in Public Management - Instituto de Altos Estudios Nacionales - IAEN. Doctoral candidate at the National University of Callao - Peru of the Doctorate in Administration.

Custode-Quiñonez, Johanna, Universidad Técnica Luis Vargas Torres de Esmeraldas

Foreign Trade Engineer, Master in Foreign Trade Management and Internationalization of Companies

Santander-Salmon, Erika Stephania, Universidad Técnica Luis Vargas Torres de Esmeraldas

Doctorate in Education (UCAB Venezuela). Master in Business Administration (Universidad de Especialidades Espiririru Santo). Specialist in People and Human Talent Management (Universidad Andina Simón Bolivar). Degree in International Business and Exchanges (Pontificia Universidad Catolica del Ecuador). Institutional Development Analyst (2007-2008) (Ministry of Culture). Cultural Activist (2008-2013). Provincial Director of Culture of Esmeraldas (2011) Administrative-Financial Assistant 2013-2014 (ICSAN Construcciones). Control and Claims Analyst 2014-2016 (Ep Flopec) Control and Claims Specialist 2016-2017 (Ep Flopec). Head (E) of Control and Claims 2014-2015-2016 (Ep Flopec). University lecturer 2018-present (Universidad Técnica Luis Vargas Torres).

How to Cite

Jara-Álvarez, G. X., Custode-Quiñonez, J., & Santander-Salmon, E. S. (2025). Open innovation as a competitiveness strategy for SMEs. Scientific Journal Science and Method, 3(1), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.55813/gaea/rcym/v3/n1/32

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