Micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) make up 99.4% of Colombia’s business ecosystem, serving as the backbone of the national economy. But recent economic turbulence has hit them hard. In 2023 alone, over 12,000 businesses entered liquidation, and hundreds more filed for insolvency, according to Valora Analitik. High inflation, rising interest rates, and market uncertainty have all taken a toll.
Yet amid the volatility, there’s hope. The SMEs that adapt, innovate, and seek the right guidance are finding opportunities where others see only risk.
This article explores how a modern, integrated business advisory approach—blending corporate law, strategic management, and sustainability—can turn survival into long-term growth for Colombian SMEs.
1. Build a Strong Legal Foundation
In uncertain times, solid legal structure is not a luxury—it’s essential. Many SMEs still operate without documented processes or awareness of key regulations, leaving them exposed to legal and operational risks. In fact, 7 out of 10 Colombian MSMEs lack documented processes, directly affecting efficiency and control.
Areas like labor law, tax compliance, data protection, anti-money laundering, and transparency require professional attention. With the right legal guidance, companies can avoid costly penalties, structure contracts soundly, and build investor trust.
At 9A, we’ve seen how proactive legal restructuring enhances productivity and profitability. When a business gets its internal house in order, it’s ready to grow with confidence.
2. Innovate and Expand Internationally
Globalization and digital transformation have opened international doors even for small businesses. But internationalization starts with strategy:
- Is your company legally ready to export or open a branch abroad?
- Do you have the right structure to receive foreign investment?
Here, soft landing services and international business advisory can offer the edge. Understanding trade agreements, tax incentives, and currency regulations can position your SME as a global player.
From brand registration abroad to export/import compliance and investment structuring, expert partners can guide your journey.
At 9A, we integrate legal and business strategy so that expansion is not only possible—but sustainable and smart from the start.
3. Make Sustainability a Business Strategy
Gone are the days when profit was a company’s only responsibility. Today’s customers, investors, and regulators demand social and environmental accountability.
As Forbes notes, "The old belief that the only responsibility of business is to increase profits is outdated." In Colombia, over 1,500 companies are already BIC (Benefit and Collective Interest Corporations)—voluntarily taking on environmental and social commitments alongside financial ones.
Sustainable SMEs are proving more resilient, efficient, and trusted. They:
- Foster better work environments (improving talent retention)
- Reduce operational costs through energy and resource efficiency
- Build brand credibility with socially conscious consumers
As the Director of Spain’s Global Compact says, “Sustainability must take center stage in decision-making.” It’s no longer just ethical—it’s smart business.
Government programs like Fábricas de Productividad y Sostenibilidad show that sustainable practices improve financial and operational performance in real SMEs.
4. The Power of Integrated Support
When legal robustness, commercial vision, and sustainability work together, powerful synergies emerge. An SME that organizes its governance, explores cross-border growth, and embraces responsible practices is set for stable, strategic expansion.
At 9A Grupo Empresarial, this is our mission. We offer:
- Corporate legal advisory
- International trade and soft landing services
- Sustainability strategy and ESG implementation
- Holistic, hands-on guidance from a multidisciplinary team
As a certified BIC company, we believe in creating economic, social, and environmental value together. Whether you need help with compliance, tax planning, sustainability policies, or global expansion—we’re here to transform challenges into growth.
Conclusion
Colombian SMEs face serious challenges—but also unprecedented opportunities. Those who invest in professionalizing their legal, commercial, and sustainability practices are not just surviving. They’re leading.
With the right support—modern, integrated, and committed—a small business can make the leap from survival to sustainable success. And when that time comes, 9A Grupo Empresarial is your ally. We'll walk with you, turning vision into action and ambition into results.
