Designing a conceptual model of innovation ecosystem in small and medium enterprises using ISM-SEM

A review of the research literature shows that a similar structure can not be observed for the models presented in the field of innovation ecosystem in the conducted researches; Therefore, in order to increase innovation in companies, an appropriate model of innovation ecosystem should be designed based on local characteristics and constraints. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to design a conceptual model of innovation ecosystem in small and medium enterprises using ISM-SEM. The method of work was descriptive-causal. The statistical population of this study included two sections of experts and managers of small and medium companies in East Azerbaijan province. In this research, 11 experts participated in the first part and 335 managers of small and medium companies in the second part of the research answered the questionnaires. Two questionnaires were used to collect data, which were distributed among the members of the statistical sample after determining their validity and reliability. For data analysis, interpretive structural modeling (ISM) and structural path modeling (SEM) have been used. The findings of the structural-interpretive modeling section show that the dimensions of the innovation ecosystem in small and medium industries are in five levels, each of which has direct and indirect relations with other levels. Also, the test of the developed model among companies has shown the appropriate validity and reliability of the developed model and the confirmation of direct and indirect relationships between the dimensions of the innovation ecosystem in small and medium enterprises.