SMEs all around the world are backbone of the economies. SMEs also need to align their goals and objectives with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as they are competing with big multinationals. The purpose of this paper is to check how SDGs can work as a moral compass and provide strategic framework for ensuring competitiveness and sustainable growth in SMEs
This study is based on systematic literature review. The authors have identified the papers from journals, policy papers from governments and case studies. The duration of the selected publication is between 2015 to 2025, and the focus countries are India, United Kingdom, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia and Australia.
The key findings of the paper suggest the SMEs which have aligned their business objectives and goals with SDG-based business models are experiencing improved operational efficiency, accessibility to new markets, more financing opportunities and increase in the customer base. The digital transformation helped in increasing the stakeholders’ engagement.
The research results can’t be generalized as the findings are based on secondary data. If we validate our findings on the primary data, then the research findings may vary. Original Value: This paper contributes to the growing discourse on sustainable entrepreneurship by framing SDG implementation as a strategic growth mechanism for SMEs, rather than a philanthropic endeavor. It offers a conceptual roadmap linking purpose-driven strategies with measurable business success.
The SDGs goals are not only limited to multinational or big organizations. SMEs should also plan their strategies around SDG goals to attract more customers and investors
