Resilience of small and medium-sized enterprises in times of crisis: an umbrella review

Abstract This paper explores the characteristics that make small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) resilient in times of crisis and the coping strategies they use to become resilient. We employ an umbrella review methodology to synthesize the findings of existing literature reviews on the topic, published in leading business and management journals. Specifically, we examine the intersection between different crisis types that affect SMEs, resilience as a multidisciplinary and multidimensional concept, key barriers to SME resilience, and SMEs’ coping strategies. We propose a holistic framework for resilient SMEs, encompassing three fundamental components: crisis as a causative factor, preparation through the cultivation of specific characteristics, and responses in the form of coping strategies. Finally, we offer an agenda for future research on achieving SME resilience in times of crisis, along with actionable managerial implications for developing and implementing effective crisis response strategies.