Strategic Partnership and Resilience of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Rivers State

This study investigatedthe relationship between strategic partnership and resilience of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)in Rivers State with dimensions of resilience such as adaptive capability and organizational learning. The much pressing problem that was solved through this research was the inability of SMEs to come together to pursue the same strategic objective which enhances collective knowledge, expertise, foster unity and have the same access to the same resources in order to outperform their rivals. In solving this problem, the research involved the statement of two hypotheses and two research questions. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted. Data was collected from 60 managers and owners through the distribution of structured copies of questionnaire. The Spearman Rank Order Correlation Coefficient was used to analyze the data collected. Findings revealed that strategic partnership positively impacts adaptive capability and organizational learning, thus, enhancing firms' abilities to respond to changes in the business environment and fostercontinuous improvement and innovation for competitive advantage over rivals. The research therefore, concluded that strategic partnership in terms of resource sharing and collaborative management significantly enhancesresilience of SMEs in turbulent business environment. The study further recommended that firms should be strategic in their use of partnerships, ensuring that these moves align with their long-term objectives to remain sustainable. Also, SMEs should seek out partnerships that complement their strengths which will offer new opportunities for competitive advantage and growth.