Date of Conferral

9-26-2025

Degree

Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)

School

Management

Advisor

Meridith Wentz

Abstract

In an increasingly competitive marketplace, small and medium businesses (SMBs) can use effective supply chain management (SCM) to strengthen competitiveness. Supply chain stakeholders and SMB owners are concerned with maintaining resilient and innovative supply chains to sustain growth. Grounded in game theory, the purpose of this qualitative pragmatic inquiry was to identify and explore effective strategies that small business leaders use to identify and implement supply chain innovation. Data were collected through Walden University and peer-reviewed studies. Through thematic analysis, nine themes were identified: supplier diversification, inventory management, cost evaluation, visibility systems, technology and automation, improved communication, risk management, changes and adaptability, and data-driven decision making. A key recommendation is for SCM leaders to empower SMBs to differentiate themselves, foster customer loyalty, and drive growth. The implications for positive social change include the potential for SMB leaders to foster job creation and sustainable supply chain practices, thereby strengthening local communities.

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