Empowering sustainability. A tailored support program for Swiss SMEs
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Author (Corporation)
Publication date
2024
Typ of student thesis
Course of study
Collections
Type
04B - Conference paper
Editor (Corporation)
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Parent work
Sustainable business models for the digital, green and inclusive transition. Book of abstracts
Special issue
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Series
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Issue / Number
Pages / Duration
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Publisher / Publishing institution
Mondragon Unibertsitatea
Place of publication / Event location
Hermani
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Abstract
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Switzerland encounter significant challenges in integrating sustainability into their operations. Internal obstacles like a lack of orientation and limited resources, compounded by external factors such as the absence of tailored standards, hinder progress. This paper presents a support program by the University of Applied Sciences Northwest Switzerland (FHNW) and the Aargauische Kantonal Bank (AKB) aimed at catalysing sustainability efforts within SMEs. The program leverages research on the importance of committed top management and past pioneering activities to foster strategic sustainability and green innovation. It offers tailored interventions in strategic setting, knowledge sharing, communication, and partnerships. Utilizing customized questionnaires and expert coaching, SMEs formulate and implement sustainability strategies aligned with their goals. Workshops and storytelling enhance sustainability communication, while networking opportunities facilitate collaboration. Initial results show promising progress, particularly in strategic alignment and communication. Challenges remain in addressing environmental and climate issues. Continued long-term measurement and expanded support offerings hold promise for driving systemic shifts in SME sustainability performance. This paper provides insights into the effectiveness of tailored support mechanisms, paving the way for future initiatives to bolster sustainable practices in the SME sector.
Keywords
Subject (DDC)
Event
9th Conference on new business models - NBM2024
Exhibition start date
Exhibition end date
Conference start date
03.07.2024
Conference end date
05.07.2024
Date of the last check
ISBN
978-84-09-62978-7
ISSN
Language
English
Created during FHNW affiliation
Yes
Strategic action fields FHNW
Publication status
Published
Review
Peer review of the complete publication
Open access category
Diamond
License
Citation
Pavlova, P., & Daub, C.-H. (2024). Empowering sustainability. A tailored support program for Swiss SMEs. In D. I. Zuluaga & J. I. Igartua Lopez (Eds.), Sustainable business models for the digital, green and inclusive transition. Book of abstracts. Mondragon Unibertsitatea. https://doi.org/10.48764/kgk7-va07