A Model for Strategic Alliance Functions for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises

This research aims at identifying and presenting a model for strategic alliance functions for successful small and medium-sized enterprises. The functions of strategic alliance include strengthening competitive advantage, strengthening entrepreneurial and innovative capabilities, strengthening social capital, and internationalization of small and medium-sized enterprises. Research method was both qualitative and quantitative. In the qualitative section, semi-structured interviews were conducted with experts in the segmentation industry, who were experienced in strategic alliances. The statistical sample was  purposefully targeted and with respect to the nature of any qualitative research, selection continued until its volume reached data saturation (twelve subjects). In the quantitative part, the model obtained in the qualitative section was first translated in the framework of questionnaires which were distributed among a sample of 100 industrial managers and experts with experience in strategic alliances in the segmentation industries of Tehran Province. Then, using confirmatory factor analysis, the designed construct was approved. Finally, findings were summarized in four broad categories of strengthening entrepreneurial capabilities, strengthening social capital, internationalization of firms, and strengthening competitive advantage, which respectively have the strongest impact on the formation of strategic alliances. This research has led to the identification and presentation of a native model for the functions which small and medium-sized enterprises can make the best use of in order to enter into alliances with large companies.