MNE–SME Engagement for the SDGs

Drawing on a case study of Bayer’s partnership with Ghanaian digital health venture Bisa, this article explores how multinational enterprises (MNEs) can effectively engage with smaller entrepreneurial firms to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Rooted in the division of entrepreneurial labor framework, it proposes a three-part partnering process: (1) leveraging complementary social innovation capabilities (capability dimension), (2) co-opting non-profit actors to enhance collaboration (connectivity dimension), and (3) scaling impact in underserved regions (contextuality dimension). This shift from joint to shared value creation offers actionable insights for MNE managers seeking sustainable development impact through innovative partnerships with SMEs.