The Mighty Middle: An exploration of the Medium-Sized Firm and the Support Mechanisms they need for growth and enterprise development

Summary

In both academic and policy literature, enterprises are generally defined as Sole-trader/Self-employed, Micro (1-9 employees), SME (10-249) and Large (250+) (OECD, 2023). Little research has focussed on differentiating firm size between the small to medium level. From an academic perspective SME’s are often categorised homogenously despite evidence of heterogeneity. As Porter (1985) outlines, both small and large firms can effectively capture niche markets, while medium‐sized firms are ‘stuck in the middle’ in the sense that they can be less competitive than their counterparts in either end of the firm size distribution. Conversely, other research has shown that medium-sized businesses can have a higher growth potential than small businesses due to their greater resources and ability to access financing (North, 2011).

Debates regarding the impact of company size on firm performance have been ongoing in the realms of business organization and industrial economics. This project seeks to better understand the challenges and opportunities that come from being a medium-sized firm and further seek to differentiate the definition and understanding of firm size that has hitherto been overlooked in academic and policy literature.

In this vein we are interested in investigating the following research questions:

* What challenges/opportunities do medium-sized firms encounter within an increasingly complex global environment
* What (if any) support mechanisms are in place for the medium-sized firm and to what extent do they assist the firm in overcoming challenges and capitalising upon unique opportunities for enterprise growth and development
* How can government and policy better support the medium-sized firm

In pursuit of answers to these questions we are interested in exploring the application of qualitative and / or quantitative research methods as both a means of understanding the complexity of the medium-sized firm as well as the mechanisms by which they can be better supported in their growth and development.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement
• Research proposal of 2000 words detailing aims, objectives, milestones and methodology of the project

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Masters at 70%

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)

These scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £19,237 (tbc) per annum for three years* (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

To be eligible for these scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a UK National, or

• Have settled status, or

• Have pre-settled status, or

• Have indefinite leave to remain or enter, or

• be an Irish National

Applicants should also meet the residency criteria which requires that they have lived in the EEA, Switzerland, the UK or Gibraltar for at least the three years preceding the start date of the research degree programme.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period (individual project advertisements will note where part time options apply).

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.