Export strategies for manufacturing SMEs: responding to socio-economic consequences of COVID-19 outbreak in a Danish context

Purpose: The purpose of this contribution is (1) to understand the hurdles and motives for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the North Jutland Region to export in the business environment changed under the circumstances of Covid- 19 outbreak; (2) and to come up with proposals for practical solutions as well as theoretical models to promote the expansion of SMEs both in the internal market and outside the EU. Methodolody: Multi-case study research (Yin, 2014) is conducted as a qualitative approach. Cases are selected through selective sampling. Data collection takes place through semi-structured interviews (Brinkmann & Kvale, 2009).Data analysis is performed using qualitative content analysis. Expected results: A deep insight is gained into SMEs' existing export processes and inspiring solutions to counteract consequences od COVID-19 pandemic in business activities. In addition, a theoretical model for export growth for SMEs is being developed. Originality: Small and medium-sized enterprises are a major driver in the region's development, as they represent a large part of the region's employment. Therefore, it is important to understand obstacles in their export approach as well as to come up with a qualified proposal and methods to solve this challenge in the unprecedented times of COVID-19 outbreak.