SME competence transformation - a case study on industrial structural change

The paper considers SME competence transformation resulting from structural changes in the forest industry. The focus is on change management of public actors and SMEs. The research data are based on publicly available industry data and 13 in-depth themed interviews of public actors, SME managers and start-up entrepreneurs. In this study, it is found that SMEs develop their business in response to external changes and are able to transform their competences to meet changed circumstances. Furthermore, it is noted that start-up companies base their business on formerly acquired skills and competences. Another important finding is that public actors manage structural change but, from the perspective of entrepreneurs, do not appear to meet the needs of SMEs and micro companies. The paper provides valuable insights into change management, competence transformation paths and possible pitfalls which public actors and SMEs may face when confronting business environment changes.