3245-0392 Appendix B-8 Small Business Semi-Structured Interview Protocol_6-03-2024

RIC OMB ICR - Appendix B-8 Small Business Semi-Structured Interview Protocol

OMB Approval number: 3245-0392

Expiration Date: 04/30/2026

Small Business Semi-Structured Interview Protocol

For the interviewee - The main focus of this interview is on:

• Cluster methods for outreach and recruitment

• Ways in which the cluster facilitated innovation and engagement in the regional ecosystem

• Suggestions for cluster improvement

The bolded sections below represent topics covered in the Small Business Interview with example questions included for each topic. Exact questions are subject to change based on business-specific context.

Probe for barriers, facilitators, and local and contextual influences.

Outreach and recruitment

• How did the cluster reach out or recruit you into its events, activities, or services?

  • Do you plan on participating in future cluster events/activities, and if not, why?

  • Please provide suggestions for cluster outreach. Is there something the cluster can do better?

Ecosystem engagement

• How did the cluster connect your business with the resources available in the business ecosystem in your region (e.g., entrepreneurial support organizations (ESO), business networks, suppliers, clients, etc.)?

  • How did the cluster facilitate collaboration and exchange of information between your business and other organizations or regional stakeholders?

Business growth

• How did the cluster facilitate your business growth?

• Were cluster events/activities helpful in addressing your business priorities? Can the cluster do/provide anything differently to help you attain your business goals?

Innovation

• How did the cluster facilitate your innovation strategy, products, or services?

  • What could the cluster do or provide to facilitate or support innovation for your business goals?

  • Note: In this context, innovation can mean developing new or improving existing technology, products, services, or production/delivery methods.

General feedback

• What is [cluster name] excelling at, and what could it be doing better?