Applying the Open Innovation Model in Empowering (SMEs) for Strategic Cooperation with Large Companies (Study in the Cosmetics Industry)

Achieving the goals of the country's 20-year vision requires developing the capacity for creativity and innovation. Strengthening the country's innovation capacity leads to innovation and empowerment of companies and ultimately economic growth. Today, with the advances made in science and technology and its complexity in the business world, the development of knowledge and technology is not within the capabilities of an individual or a small and medium company, but requires interactions with large companies and strategic cooperation. The purpose of this study is to apply the open innovation model in empowering small and medium enterprises (SMEs) for strategic cooperation with large companies. In other words, we find out how open innovation helps small and medium-sized businesses build their competitive advantage through innovation and partnerships with larger companies, and reduce the risks around them. In this research, a qualitative research method based on field theory has been used and interviews with 20entrepreneurial and elite managers of the cosmetics industry specializing in strategic cooperation have been conducted. In this study, it was found that inter-organizational cooperation can be an important stimulus for the development of innovation and empowerment strategies in different dimensions.