Understanding SME leadership, management and productivity in the West Midlands

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and City REDI at the University of Birmingham are undertaking a study to understand the factors shaping business leadership, management capability, productivity, and performance among small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) across the region.

Small businesses are operating in a period of rapid technological change, shifting markets, and economic uncertainty. To design effective business support, we need to understand the real challenges and opportunities facing firms on the ground.

The study focuses on three core questions:

1. What strategic decisions do SMEs need to make to navigate rapid technological change and economic turbulence?
   e.g. how firms approach digital adoption, skills development, market diversification, innovation, and investment planning.
2. How do small firms build their leadership and management capability?
   e.g. what helps business owners and managers develop the skills, confidence, and strategic mindset needed to grow and adapt.
3. How can the regional business support ecosystem help?
   e.g. the role of local authorities, accelerators, finance providers etc in supporting SME capability and productivity.

The researchers are looking for SME owners and managers who are willing to participate in confidential online interviews (maximum duration 45 minutes) in February 2026. 

To register your interest in taking part, please email Dan.Carins@wmca.org.uk 

We also plan to talk to key actors in the Regional business support ecosystem including:

• Business support providers (e.g., Business Advisors, Chambers, accelerators, Catapults)
• Sector bodies and cluster organisations
• Investors, lenders, funders and finance intermediaries
• Skills and training providers
• Universities, Further Education Colleges and innovation partners

Your insights will help shape future WMCA policy, improve the design of business support programmes, and strengthen the region’s innovation, skills and productivity ecosystem.

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