Open innovation in German SMEs - a case study

Innovations are increasingly emerging from networks in which different competencies can be bundled with the help of the Open Innovation (OI) paradigm. The present first of its kind case study examined the knowledge and dissemination of Open Innovation among German SMEs from the traditional industry of technical textiles with the help of an online questionnaire and personal interviews. In this way, it can make a significant contribution to the understanding of opportunities, risks and concerns regarding OI in SMEs. So far, this understanding only existed for larger companies and corporations. In this examination approximately 20% of the whole industry participated. The results of the study show that Open Innovation is seen as a great potential for improving innovation activities in SMEs. It is widespread among these enterprises but at the same time lacking behind the number of larger corporations that are active in the field of Open Innovation.