The resilience of business ecosystems in the post-COVID-19 era: Notes on the European Recovery and Resilience Facility

Today’s COVID-19 crisis drives various socioeconomic systems to a profound readjustment and restructuring. This presentation aims to examine the need to reinforce the resilience of business ecosystems, suggesting future research avenues mainly at the regional level. In terms of design, a synthesis of the resilience and business ecosystems’ concepts is approached, followed by introducing essential elements concerning the European Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF). The conclusions are twofold. First, the resilience of business ecosystems is a significant development pillar for the post-COVID-19 era, even though the RRF does not include provisions for regional development (the national authorities are responsible). Second, the resilience of local and regional authorities is significant, especially in areas where small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) rely on activities affected by the pandemic, such as tourism and transport. Further research could focus on the relationship between SME innovation and critical infrastructure.