Abstract
This paper examines how social value is embedded yet often invisible within small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) growth processes. While SME growth is typically evaluated through financial indicators, such measures overlook the subjective and relative importance shaping how firms develop in practice. Drawing on design science research, the study develops and evaluates a diagnostic tool that enables SME senior decision-makers to surface and reflect on the social value embedded in their growth decisions. Using a Q-sort technique, the tool captures owner-managers’ subjectivity, lived experience, and the relative importance they assign to growth-related considerations. The tool was developed and refined through three iterative design cycles involving three stakeholder groups:academic experts, practitioners, and SME owner-managers. Findings show that most participants articulated social value priorities they had not previously recognised or connected to growth. The study contributes to SME growth and responsible business research by reframing growth as a socially embedded