The bioeconomy paradigm as a factor stimulating companies innovation in SMEs sector

Abstract

Purpose of the study: This study intended to do an assessment of the bioeconomy paradigm importance for companies’ innovation in the SMEs sector.
 Methodology: The research material was collected on the basis of desk research method using professional literature, including book publications, scientific articles, presentations, reports, as well as various legal acts and press sources in paper and electronic form. Case studies of selected companies were prepared on the basis of the European Commission report.
 Main Findings: The concept of knowledge-based bioeconomy has become an important factor determining the innovation of enterprises. In the face of global eco-threats, companies that implement strategies in areas convergent with the new development paradigm are increasingly using innovative biotechnologies in their manufacturing processes or replacing non-renewable production resources with biodegradable bio-materials. In the process of changes, an important role is played by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), whose activities are to fill the gap between scientific research and the implementation of innovation, especially in such areas as food, agriculture and fisheries, and biotechnology. Therefore, despite numerous implementation barriers, this sector has gained a new source of competitive advantages thanks to the bioeconomy.
 Applications of this study: The presented material may become a source of knowledge for entrepreneurs interested in developing activities in the area of bioeconomy and for institutions focused on creating innovation support programs for the SMEs sector.
 The originality of this study: In the literature the bioeconomy is considered mainly as the sustainable production of renewable resources and the possibility of their transformation into food, feed, bio-based products or bioenergy. The new development paradigm should therefore be considered as a valuable source of competitive advantages for enterprises. This study documented its importance as a factor stimulating the innovation activity of small and medium-sized enterprises. This phenomenon is particularly important from the point of view of the Polish SMEs sector, whose innovations are most often of an imitative nature.