Leadership development in small- and medium-sized enterprises: the case for action learning

The importance of small firms
In most developed economies the health of the small- and medium-sized enterprise (SME) sector has long been seen as essential. The sector can account for between 50 and 70% of all firms and generates a large percentage of the gross national product; has the potential to create employment; and represents a source of innovation. Furthermore, government and policy makers often see the SME community as the source of tiny acorns from which large oak trees can grow.