Impact of digitalisation on the competitiveness of SMEs in Slovakia

This paper examines the impact of digitalization on the competitiveness of small and medium-sizedenterprises (SMEs) in Slovakia.In a rapidly changing business landscape, SMEs face many challenges and opportunities brought about by technological advances.The study analyses how digital transformation affects key competitiveness factors such as operational efficiency, market access, innovation capabilities and customer engagement.The data was collected through available stastistic data, providing insights into the current adoption of digital technologies and the barriers that businesses face in effectively using these tools.The findings suggest that SMEs which are using digital solutions show increased productivity, better market adaptability and improved customer satisfaction, which contribute significantly to their competitiveness.Nevertheless, challenges such as limited financial resources, lack of digital skills and inadequate infrastructure persist and hinder the wider adoption of these solutions.The paper concludes with recommendations for policy makers and business support organisations on how to create the conditions to foster digital growth, which is key to increasing the resilience and global competitiveness of Slovak SMEs.