Research Article · IT Management
From evaluation to growth strategy: an AI-based conceptual framework for supporting high-growth firms in innovation-intensive sectors
Technical University of Sofia, Bulgaria
KSI Transactions on Knowledge Society · Vol. XVII · No. 1 · pp. 5–16 · 2026
Abstract
In the context of accelerated digitalization and
increasing technological dynamics, the development of fast
growing enterprises is increasingly difficult to explain through
traditional linear models and a limited set of factors. This study
aims to formulate strategic recommendations for increasing
the competitiveness and innovation potential of fast-growing
enterprises operating in innovation-intensive industries,
through the use of an AI-driven evaluation framework.
The study has a conceptual-analytical nature and
combines a systematic literature review, AI-oriented analytical
interpretation and application of the proposed model through
aggregated data from the National Statistical Institute and
Eurostat for the period 2018–2023. The statistical data used
reflect the development and characteristics of over 400,000
active enterprises in Bulgaria and include indicators related to
innovation activity, digitalization, business demography and
the external business environment. The results show that
competitiveness and the potential for sustainable growth are
formed under the influence of a complex interaction between
technological, organizational, financial and external factors.
The analysis highlights a clear correlation between the level of
digitalization, innovation activity, data-driven competencies
and adaptability of enterprises. At the same time, limitations
related to low digital intensity, limited access to resources and
difficulties in integrating technologies into management
processes are identified. On this basis, the study offers strategic
recommendations to both public institutions and enterprises
aimed at developing innovation capacity, technological
adaptability and more sustainable growth models.
Keywords: fast-growing firms; artificial intelligence; digitalization; competitiveness; innovation; AI-driven evaluation model
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© 2026 Kiril Anguelov. Published by the Knowledge Society Institute in KSI Transactions on Knowledge Society.
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