Green web applications as a climate change mitigation campaign instruments

<p class="AbstractText">Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are considered to be the engine of the European economy. In EU SMEs make up more than 99% of all companies and provide around 75 million jobs. They are a key source of job creation and stimulation of entrepreneurial spirit and innovation and are therefore essential for fostering competitiveness and maintaining employment in the EU. Yet SMEs often have problems in raising funds to finance fixed investments and inventory and working capital. SMEs mostly use internal sources while the most important external sources of SMEs are bank loans, which are not easily accessible. Hence, one of the priorities of the European Commission is stimulating SMEs through EU funds and programs in order to enable SMEs development and finally to contribute to economic growth. SMEs sector also dominates the economic structure of Croatian economy and they have similar financing problems. However, Croatia in period 2014 – 2020 have at disposal a total amount of 10.676 billion of euros from European structural and investment funds, of which 8.397 billion are aimed for cohesion policy objectives and 470 million euros are aimed for the development and competitiveness of SMEs. Besides, EU programs COSME and HORIZON 2020 are intended to provide direct support to SMEs and to create a favorable environment for their development. However, even though the number of successful project applications for small and medium-sized enterprises in the total share of Croatian project applications is relatively high, fund absorption has not reached satisfactory levels. Using the sample of Split-Dalmatia County’s SMEs, this study finds out reasons for low absorption capacity from SMEs point of view: SMEs are interested in funds from European Union, but are not sufficiently familiar with their availability i.e. funds at their disposal, especially programs COSME and HORIZON 2020; SMEs state that they know how to apply for EU funds but considered the procedure as complicated and demanding regarding documentation, and that the needed knowledge and know-how for proposal is beyond their scope; SMEs are not satisfied with the cooperation with state institutions, especially Ministry of Regional Development and EU funds and Croatian Chamber of Economy. We point out four main conclusions: (1) SMEs are not enough aware of EU financing possibilities; (2) additional promotion of EU programs directly to SMEs is required; (3) additional education of SMEs regarding project proposal and documentation is needed and (4) more proactive policy of state institutions and cooperation with local authorities is expected. Finally, greater awareness and professional help might be a key in strengthening the SMEs, whose entrepreneurial spirit and innovation process is a prerequisite for economic growth and development.</p>

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are pivotal in propelling the Indonesian economy. The stability and sustainability of economies in different regions have been greatly affected by the worldwide economic issues that have emerged due to the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the identified repercussions can be witnessed in the culinary sector of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Langsa City. Thus, this study examines the effect of internal and external factors on the performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) operating in the culinary sector within Langsa City. Additionally, this research aims to evaluate and propose strategies for enhancing the performance of SMEs in the culinary industry by employing a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis framework specifically tailored to the context of Langsa City. The present study uses a qualitative research design utilizing a case research approach. Data is gathered by distributing questionnaires, conducting in-depth interviews, and assessing validity through source triangulation. Based on the findings of the study, it was determined that the Internal Factor Analysis Summary (IFAS) and External Factor Analysis Summary (EFAS) about the performance evaluation of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) operating in the culinary sector in Langsa City have not yet reached their maximum potential. This conclusion was drawn through the application of SWOT analysis. This observation may be due to the outcomes of the Cartesian diagram utilized in the SWOT analysis. The chart reveals that quadrant II exhibits the highest cumulative score, suggesting several risks encountered by the business stakeholders. However, the culinary small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) actors have internal strengths. To boost the performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the culinary sector, it is imperative to employ a Strengths-Threats (S-T) approach that focuses on implementing product diversification techniques.

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are 99.9% of total businesses in Indonesia. Mapping/clustering potential of SMEs that built in accordance with the conditions of the region/administrative, potential resources (commodities) and business units (production centers and groups) can be used as an indicator and the benchmark for guidance, development and supervision in order to strengthen the spine and the national economic structure. Objectives of the study are (1) identify potential SMEs that built in accordance with business information and problems encountered; (2) compile a database of selected target SMEs in the form of statistical profiles that are relevant to the purposes of guidance, development and supervision (success indicators and critical); (3) develop a standard model or alternative development, SMEs development and built a successful surveillance with the potential clustering patterns (base development) in accordance with local circumstances, and economic sectors. In this study used techniques: (1) desk research of secondary data sourced from SMEs that built by PT. Sucofindo and literature on SMEs-related studies conducted; (2) a brief survey to the selected SMEs locations from the point (1) purposively to obtain primary data as a verification activity that is supported by effective semi-structured questionnaire. Data analysis carried out descriptively, both qualitative and quantitative. From the study guidance, development and supervision of SMEs that built by PT Sucofindo available facts and data (information business, determinants, the feasibility of the business sector, loan repayment status and conceptual models) that SMEs that built can be categorized pre-enterprise SMEs and businesses running. Business grouping determines the smoothness of debt servicing. Therefore, in order to establish indicators of the model guidance, development and supervision in accordance with the type of SME, then the PT. Sucofindo requires an assessment system that is easy, fast, accurate, reliable and trustworthy, that can later be used as an effective guide for guidance, development and supervision of SMEs in general and in particular SMEs that built by PT. Sucofindo used a generic approach in business performance indicators that are supported by indicators of business drivers. Model guidance, development and supervision SMEs that has done so far by PT. Sucofindo still be reliable, but for the speed and feasibility of the establishment of SMEs which will be built into the front according to selected economic sectors, would be equipped with an approach that resulted in the studies of guidance, development and supervision, namely the general model of guidance, development and supervision of SMEs that built based on SMEs that built issues, systems of SMEs that built, assumptions, conceptual models and variables that can be measured. Guidance, development and supervision of SMEs that built, with potential cluster approach can be performed on: (1) category of solid natural resources, when positioned on the outskirts of the city and labor intensive, when positioned in the center of town; (2) technical assistance and competency-based according to the phase business. Both of the thing are helping improve the performance and structural improvement of SMEs, increase their competitiveness and resilience of SMEs supported by the core business, supporting business and related businesses intensively interconnected

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) contribute over 70% of jobs, contribute to GDP, aid industrial development, satisfy local demand for services, innovate and support large firms with inputs and services. However, the SMEs in Mombasa County are constantly faced with the threat of failure where three out five fails at infancy. The study investigated the influence of economic factors (taxation, finance access and wages and unemployment) on growth of SMEs in Kenya, in Mombasa County. The specific objectives of the study were; to explore the effect of taxation on growth of SMEs, to find out the effect of Financial Access on growth of SMEs, to determine the effect of wages on growth of SMEs operating, and to evaluate the effect of general unemployment on growth of SMEs operating in Mombasa County. This study employed the institutional theory of growth, the Schumpeter theory of growth and the Endogenous growth theory anchored the study. An explanatory research design was used so as to meet the research objectives. The target population was 54,245 registered SMEs and a sample size of 246 was derived using the Cochran, statistical formula. The list of registered SMEs in Mombasa formed the study population. A Systematic Random Sampling was used from a sample of 246 SMEs was drawn. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Multiple regression Analysis technique was the main technique to find the effect of social economic factors on SME growth. to analyze the data using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences with a significance level set at 0.05. Findings showed that SE conditions are just modest level. Correlation results showed that Taxation conditions (r=.344, p=.000), Financial Access (r=.430, p=.000), Wages affordability (r=.241, p=.000) are positively and significantly correlated with SME growth. Regression results showed that SE factors; Taxation conditions (=.268, p=.000), Financial Access ( =.383, p=.000), Wages ( =.182, p=.015) and Unemployment ( = -.170, p=.045) has significance effect on SMEs growth. Conclusions; Socioeconomic can reverse the current trend of high SMEs failure rate. Socioeconomic factors can buck the present trend of a high failure rate among SMEs. The study recommended that the county and national governments should implement measures enhancing tax benefits for SMEs such as utilizing the taxes prudently. Additionally, the SMEs should adopt strategies that enhance internal financial capabilities so as to incase their revenue streams. Moreover, it is recommended the SMEs to have a working and sustainable wage policy that is able to attracts and keeps talented workforce and therefore ensure continued business growth. By using a multi-sectoral approach, both local and national governments should prioritize and focus on short- and long-term policies that lower the rising rates of unemployment.

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to discuss the value of scenario planning to small and medium size enterprises (SMEs), and further examine the challenges constraining the uptake of scenario planning by SMEs. Design/methodology/approach – A conceptual review of the literature on scenario planning in SMEs intended to unpack and capture the possible underlying reasons accounting for the limited uptake of scenario planning by managers/owners of SMEs has informed the formulation of this paper. Findings – The study uncovered that SMEs’ managerial mental models, SMEs’ managerial time orientation, severe resource constraints, and industry complexity are some of the salient factors inhibiting the use of scenario planning among managers/owners of SMEs. The author develops a framework of propositions that account for the complexity and challenges of scenario planning by SMEs for future empirical examination and validation. Originality/value – The conventional wisdom is that scenario planning is carried out by large and established firms, and that SMEs are unable to adopt and practice the technique. This paper uncovers that SME have substantial needs for scenario planning, but are only able to engage in simple foresight activities such as brainstorming, desk research, networking and expert interviews to monitor their external environment. They are unable to effectively use scenario planning in its purest form as in large firms. By bringing together the reasons accounting for the difficulty of SMEs to practice scenario planning in its purest form as large firms do, the study therefore extends the limited discourse on scenario planning among SMEs. Implications are discussed and areas for future empirical studies provided.

The agro-processing Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) form an integral part of the manufacturing sector in Uganda. To effectively facilitate product certification among MSMEs, there is a need to fully understand the nature of their operations so that appropriate interventions can be put in place. This study assessed the status quo of operations at selected MSMEs in Uganda. A semi-structured paper-based questionnaire was administered to the owners, managers, or supervisors of the 40 selected agro-processing MSMEs enrolled under the project "Empowerment of the Agro-Processing Industry to meet the Quantity and Quality Standards for the Local and Export Market", a programme enhancing the practical skills of students at Makerere University dubbed the "EAPI Project." The seven-section questionnaire consisted of both quantitative and qualitative questions focusing on (i) product optimization, (ii) raw material verification and storage, (iii) good manufacturing practices, (iv) measuring and testing equipment, (v) product assessment, presentation, and storage, (vi) waste and pest management, and (vii) infrastructure and energy utilization. The results indicate that only 23.7% of agro-processing MSMEs clearly understood the standards. Packaging was the most optimized parameter (74.4%), followed by texture and sensory properties (59% and 51.1%, respectively). About 74% of the agro-processing MSMEs were compliant in declaring the raw materials on the product label. Results indicated that maintenance of valid medical certificates, routine inspection of personnel, and provision of protective gear ranked low, with a score of 1 out of 10. Inadequate documentation was a cross-cutting issue for all operations, yet it was a driver for GMPs. There is a need to strengthen the understanding and practice of Food processing standards from the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS), in the agro-processing MSMEs through continuous human and institutional-capacity development programs.

The Indonesian government has always paid considerable attention to the existence and development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This is because the number of MSMEs in Indonesia is very large, and MSMEs are able to absorb a high enough workforce with small business capital that easily adapts to market needs. The current era of digitalization requires MSME players to maximize promotional and marketing activities online. Besides that, MSMEs must obtain basic permits such as IUMK, HS and PIRT permits. Sinar Jaya Jelutung Village is located in Bangka Regency, has 98 MSME units. MSMEs that have pocketed new permits are 34%. The type of MSME cultivated by the community in the Sinar Jaya Jelutung Village is processed food. MSMEs do not yet have an online market place to sell MSME products online. Therefore, there is a need for assistance for MSMEs in the Sinar Jaya Jelutung Village to create technology-based and competitive businesses. To realize this there are several problems that partners (MSMEs) have, namely: lack of knowledge regarding clean standard production processes, and procedures for registration to obtain IUMK, HS and PIRT permits. Another problem that partners have is limited knowledge in using technology for promotion and marketing, so they have not reached a wider market share. Solutions that can be offered are to help partners by increasing knowledge about production processes with clean standards by conducting direct coaching to partners, facilitating the registration of IUMK permits, Certificates of Eligible Hygene Sanitation and PIRT. In order to reach a wider market share and to have strong coordination among MSME players, training was conducted on registration and design of packaging stickers for the promotion and marketing of all MSME products in the Sinar Jaya Jelutung Village. Community service activities with targeted partners for MSME actors in the Sinar Jaya Jelutung Sub-District are running smoothly and well, so they can achieve the set targets. This community service activity is in the form of outreach and direct assistance to target partners. The knowledge and awareness of MSME actors has increased regarding the submission of product legality, at the end of the activity all MSME actors already have NIB and PIRT certificates. Awareness of having attractive and informative packaging stickers is increasing, MSME players have received packaging stickers to support product promotion.

MSMEs are vital to Indonesia's economy, making a substantial contribution to GDP and employment. Nevertheless, a number of MSME players encounter obstacles such restricted capital availability, weak financial management abilities, and a lack of appropriate business mentoring. This study aims to analyze the role of the Cooperative, MSME, and Labor Department of Palu City in empowering Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) actors in 2022. The method used is descriptive with a qualitative approach. Data sources in this study consist of primary and secondary data. Primary data was obtained through direct interviews with staff of the Cooperative, MSME, and Labor Department of Palu City who work in the MSME field. Secondary data was obtained from official documents and archives (RSIP) owned by the department, particularly those related to MSME empowerment programs. Data collection techniques used include interviews, documentation, and collection of related documents from relevant agencies. Research results show that the Cooperative, MSME, and Labor Department of Palu City has implemented various empowerment programs, such as providing equipment and capital assistance, as well as business mentoring. The total business capital funds distributed to 1,101 MSME actors reached Rp2,202,000,000, and equipment assistance was adjusted according to each type of business. This program positively impacts MSME growth and poverty reduction in Palu City, despite challenges like low awareness of training, uneven mentoring, and limited capacity in business management and financial recording. Therefore, more intensive, integrated, and sustainable empowerment strategies are needed to optimally improve MSME capacity and competitiveness.

The Local Government in South Africa faces several strong developmental challenges. Although there are several interventions that are introduced to confront these challenges, which include mainly climate change, poverty, unemployment, skills shortage, illiteracy and health care including (HIV/AIDS) with partial success. In this paper, a conceptual framework is proposed for climate change and its impact on small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in particular those in agricultural sectors of Bushbuckridge in South Africa. Rural communities and local municipalities will need to find appropriate and efficient ways of developing resilience to climate change through adaptation measures. These measures will need to be supported at a systemic level, including through intergovernmental finance mechanisms. Therefore SMMEs need to adapt and mitigate climate change effects interacting with the sustainability of their business growth activities within Bushbuckridge Municipality area. In this article, a conceptual framework is proposed for small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in South Africa. The literature review includes an analysis of documents issued by Bushbuckridge local municipalities as well by the National Department of Provincial and Local Government. Finally the intended contextualised literature is for municipalities to develop strategies to assist SMMEs in agriculture. DOI: 10.5901/ajis.2014.v3n6p109

MSME: Nursery for Entrepreneurshipp: A Legal Perspective

This study aims to analyze the business management strategies employed by Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Pungpungan Village, Bojonegoro, with the goal of enhancing their competitiveness in the market. Utilizing a qualitative research approach, the study investigates the key factors influencing the success of local MSMEs and the challenges they face in a competitive market environment. Data was gathered through in-depth interviews with MSME owners, direct field observations, and document analysis, which focused on local government policies for MSME development. The results show that effective business management strategies adopted by successful MSMEs include product innovation, the use of digital marketing platforms, and the enhancement of human resource capacity through training and mentorship programs. Additionally, support from local governments and business communities has been identified as a vital factor in improving MSMEs’ access to capital and wider markets. Despite these positive strategies, the study also highlights significant challenges such as technological constraints, low levels of financial literacy, and difficulties in establishing a broad distribution network. These obstacles hinder the optimal growth and competitiveness of MSMEs. The research concludes that collaboration among government, academic institutions, and business actors is essential in creating a supportive ecosystem that ensures the sustainable growth of MSMEs. The findings of this study offer valuable insights for policymakers and can serve as a reference for formulating strategic policies aimed at enhancing the development of MSMEs, especially in rural areas.

Advances in digital technology in the financial sector have encouraged Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to shift from cash payment systems to non-cash payments through QRIS (Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard) as an effort to increase efficiency and modernize transactions. This research is motivated by the low level of QRIS adoption among MSMEs in Junti Village, Jawilan District, Serang Regency, Banten, most of which still rely on cash-based transactions. The purpose of this research is to analyze the implementation of QRIS by MSMEs, identify the obstacles faced, and assess the impact of the system's implementation on daily business activities. Data were collected through field observations, interviews with MSME actors, and supporting documentation, and this research was conducted in Junti Village in July 2025. The results revealed that some MSMEs that have adopted QRIS experienced benefits in the form of ease in conducting transactions, increased efficiency, and a more professional business image. These findings also confirm that the use of QRIS contributes to the acceleration of digital transformation in the MSME sector, although not yet fully optimal. The main obstacles encountered were limited access and the quality of internet infrastructure, which is still uneven, making it difficult for some business actors to utilize QRIS optimally. Based on these results, the study recommends the importance of increasing the intensity of socialization and training on QRIS use, as well as the need for ongoing support from local governments and financial institutions so that MSMEs can adapt more quickly and comprehensively to changes in digital technology, so that MSME digital transformation can take place effectively, inclusively, and sustainably. This study recommends the need for increased socialization, training, and support from financial institutions and local governments to encourage sustainable digital transformation of MSMEs.

Digital marketing is an economical and cutting-edge method to effectively connect with and captivate people on the internet. Nevertheless, the extent to which small as well as medium companies (SMEs) in the education field in Malaysia have embraced and experienced the effects of digital marketing tactics remains uncertain. This systematic review seeks to address the following research inquiries: (1) What are the digital marketing tactics used by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the education industry in Malaysia? (2) What is the impact of digital marketing on the commercial performance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the education sector in Malaysia? We have discovered 12 papers that fulfill our criteria for inclusion, consisting of 10 surveys, one quasi-experimental research, and one case study. The outcomes showed that digital marketing had a encouraging and substantial impact on the operational effectiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in the education industry in Malaysia. The average magnitude of this impact was measured at 0.45, with a confidence interval of 95% ranging from 0.32 to 0.58. This systematic review presents data supporting the efficacy and advantages of digital marketing as a strategy for small as well as medium enterprises (SMEs) in the education field in Malaysia. SMEs may enhance their company performance by using digital marketing to augment their online presence, expand their reach, and foster consumer interaction”.

Purpose This research investigates the feasibility, benefits and challenges of environmental sustainability reporting by Small- and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs). Design/methodology/approach The authors develop an abridged SME environmental sustainability reporting framework based on the environmental aspects of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards for Sustainability Reporting. The authors collect the views of 203 SME accounting practitioners on our proposed reporting framework using a survey questionnaire. Findings The authors find that the greatest perceived benefit for firms adopting environmental sustainability reporting is that it leads to an improvement in company image. Lack of knowledge, resources and data capturing tools impede implementation of environmental sustainability reporting for both SMEs and accounting practitioners. While SMEs are not yet required to implement environmental sustainability reporting, the research discusses implications for policy makers and practitioners for adopting environmental sustainability reporting in the SME context. Research limitations/implications The main limitation of this study is that environmental sustainability reporting for SMEs is in its infancy. A longitudinal survey, or re-examining this survey over time, could be beneficial to assess the long-term benefits and costs of implementing sustainability reporting. Practical implications The findings of this study have practical implications for the future development of SME environmental sustainability reporting in the EU and for regulators considering sustainability reporting regulations with a specific focus on SMEs. Originality/value The study reconstructs the GRI environmental guidelines into a framework for SMEs and provides empirical evidence on the accountant’s sustainability reporting role.

Chatbot for SMEs: Integrating customer and business owner perspectives