Business model innovation (BMI) in small enterprises from developing countries during COVID-19 outbreak: Exploring drivers and BMI outcomes

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to provide understanding of driving forces for Business Model Innovation (BMI) during the pandemic for small businesses in developing countries, comparing them with identified BMI drivers before the outbreak and evaluating their response to the current crisis. A qualitative multiple case study is conducted as it allows the study of BMI within real life and contemporary context. Case study organisations that adopt innovative business models participated from technology, education, and social enterprises. Findings shows that small organisations are influenced by internal and external factors towards BMI during the pandemic. Case organisations showed resilience to the crisis by adjusting accordingly to allow uninterrupted operation during lockdown; developing new products, services and processes that would ensure sustained demand during COVID-19 pandemic. The study explores theoretical implications of the findings. Also, lessons from this research could be useful for practitioners from developed and developing countries. Policymakers from developing countries could benefit from focusing their activities on promoting firms to find novel ways of operating during times of pandemic preventing further economic damage and unemployment.