The Benefits of Innovation for Small Businesses

The purpose of this qualitative multiple case study was to explore strategic managerial tools small business owners or managers use to sustain growth over time through Schumpeter’s innovation theory. Five small business owners located in North America were interviewed through face-to-face open-ended interview questions. The results from data analysis collected through interview responses indicated that small business owners or managers attested that their businesses were developed when using innovation as a strategic managerial tool. By contrast, small business owners or managers agreed that the lack of using innovation and understanding the reality of the current business context had an adverse impact on business growth. The findings of this study may also provide small business leaders or managers with critical information to ensure success and better understand strategies small businesses need for long-term growth.