Enhancing R&D in Taiwanese Small and Medium Enterprises: An Analysis of Post COVID-19 Business Survival Strategies

Robert Stalone Buwule; Tony Kuo

doi:10.32890/ijms2025.32.1.4

Authors

Robert Stalone Buwule University Library Mbarara University of Science and Technology/ Kyambogo University, Uganda
Tony Kuo Office of International Affairs Shih Chien University, Dazhi, Taiwan, Province of China

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32890/ijms2025.32.1.4

Keywords:

Research & Development, Small and Medium Enterprises, Research & Innovation, COVID-19

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Despite numerous setbacks, some SMEs demonstrated resilience by adopting innovative survival strategies, including investment in research and development (R&D). This study investigates the extent of R&D investment among selected SMEs in Taiwan and its role in their survival during the pandemic. Using a mixed methods approach, data was collected through semi-structured questionnaires, with participants representing various SME categories until saturation was achieved. SME proprietors provided insights on how R&D investments contributed to their resilience. The findings indicate that 73.3% of respondents invested directly in R&D and 54.3% reported that R&D investments positively impacted their business survival during the pandemic. The study recommends that SMEs enhance their R&D capabilities by developing staff skills and allocating specific funds for R&D in their budgets to better withstand future disruptions.

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Author Biography

Robert Stalone Buwule, University Library Mbarara University of Science and Technology/ Kyambogo University

Senior Assistant Librarian

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