Paper Title
From Competition To Collaboration: Activity-Based Coopetition in Plastics and Composites SMEs

Abstract
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the plastics and composites industry face unprecedented challenges including resource constraints, global competition, and market volatility. This research introduces an innovative activity-based coopetition framework that enables SMEs to selectively collaborate with competitors on specific business functions while maintaining competitive advantages in core areas. Through an empirical study of Alliance Polymères Québec (APQ) member firms, we develop a novel Collaborative Activity Positioning Matrix (CAPM) that maps collaboration suitability across business functions based on customer proximity and strategic sensitivity. Our findings reveal a clear activity hierarchy where SMEs demonstrate high willingness to collaborate in support functions (75% logistics, 77.8% competitive intelligence) while protecting customer-facing operations. We introduce the concept of "coopetition corridors"—strategic spaces where collaboration creates mutual value without compromising competitive positions. The study contributes a practical implementation roadmap and governance framework for activity-based coopetition in manufacturing SMEs. Keywords - Activity-Based Coopetition, SMEs, Plastics Industry, Collaborative Positioning, Strategic Alliances, Coopetition Governance.