BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION: THE STRATEGIC ROLE OF THE INNOVATION RADAR IN MICRO AND SMALL ENTERPRISES

Abstract

The SEBRAE's ALI Productivity Program is a strategic initiative focused on boosting the innovation and competitiveness of micro and small enterprises (MSEs) in Brazil. This article analyzes the effectiveness of the Innovation Radar, the program's central tool, in the productive transformation of MSEs assisted by Local Innovation Agents (ALIs). Based on an MIT model and adapted by SEBRAE, the Radar is a comprehensive diagnostic tool that assesses everything from managerial controls to innovative practices, providing a complete business overview. By examining the Radar's application in Cycle 1, this research aims to prove its importance in the final evaluation of revenue, costs, and productivity. Companies that prioritized deficit areas such as ESG and Managerial Controls achieved success, maximizing their productivity. However, analyses of negative results revealed a critical disconnect between the deficiencies pointed out by the Radar and the action priorities chosen by the MSEs, emphasizing the need for greater awareness of essential practices. In summary, the success of the ALI Productivity Program does not depend solely on the quality of the tool, but on the commitment of the entrepreneurs. The program, combined with the strategic use of the Radar, can catalyze the positive transformation of MSEs, provided there is an active partnership between ALIs and companies for the effective implementation of action plans.