A Protocol for Researching Inter-firm Linkages: Fostering SME Integration within South Africa's Corporate Sector, 2000–2003

This research protocol outlines a study investigating the development of inter-firm linkages between large corporations and local small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa during the formative period of 2000–2003. The study addresses a critical gap in the literature concerning the implementation of Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) policies, specifically the persistent lack of meaningful integration of local, particularly women-led, SMEs into mainstream corporate value chains. Its primary objective is to identify the critical success factors and structural barriers that characterised these early linkage programmes. Employing a rigorous qualitative, multiple-case study methodology, the research will analyse documented initiatives from four major Johannesburg-listed corporations. Data collection involves systematic archival analysis of corporate annual reports, BEE charters, and policy documents, supplemented by semi-structured interviews with former corporate social responsibility and procurement managers. Thematic analysis will be used to interpret the data, with validity strengthened through methodological triangulation and a clear audit trail. The anticipated findings will delineate the operational models and governance structures of early programmes, arguing that their design often inadvertently perpetuated dependency rather than fostering sustainable, autonomous SME development. The study’s significance lies in its contribution of a historically-grounded, evidence-based perspective on inclusive business models, offering critical insights for policymakers and corporate leaders seeking to formulate more effective SME integration strategies that advance women’s economic leadership and equitable growth.