Small and mid-sized enterprises play a vital role in the United States economy, yet they are often the most vulnerable during periods of disruption. This accepted scholarly research presentation examines how Hispanic-owned small and medium-sized enterprises in the Midwest responded to the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic by adopting digital technologies to strengthen business resilience.
Focusing on Hispanic SMEs operating across sectors such as construction, hospitality, professional services, and recreation, the study explores how business owners navigated sharp declines in sales, supply chain disruptions, customer loss, and rising operational costs. Through a cross-sectional web-based survey combining quantitative and qualitative responses, the research captures firsthand experiences of Hispanic entrepreneurs implementing digital strategies during the pandemic.
Findings indicate that many Hispanic SMEs leveraged digital tools to expand customer reach, improve efficiency, and stabilize operations. A majority of respondents reported that their digital implementations were effective, citing gains in efficiency, cost reduction, customer engagement, and revenue generation. At the same time, the research highlights persistent challenges, including employee resistance to change, gaps in digital skills, and concerns around cybersecurity. These insights provide a nuanced picture of both the opportunities and constraints facing minority-owned businesses during times of crisis.
The presentation emphasizes the broader implications of digital resilience for entrepreneurship, public policy, and economic development. By identifying effective strategies and common barriers, the research offers practical guidance for government agencies, business support organizations, and policymakers seeking to design programs that better support Hispanic-owned enterprises. The session contributes to the literature by centering the lived experiences of Hispanic business owners and translating those insights into actionable recommendations.
Author and Affiliation
Luis Orozco, Ball State University
Join us at the SAM International Business Conference to explore how Hispanic entrepreneurs adapted to crisis through digital innovation. This presentation will be delivered virtually, allowing participants from around the world to engage with the research and discussion on digital resilience and small business management.
Register to attend the conference at www.samnational.org/conference and be part of the conversation on entrepreneurship, resilience, and inclusive economic growth.