The purpose of this article, is to evaluate the activities of small companies in Wałbrzych and surrounding areas, in the context of the implementation and participation in innovation. Small businesses were explored in the field of innovation in their own enterprise. Attention was paid to the dilemmas of entrepreneurs, both for existing or possible innovation potential, and the environment, including their tendency in participation in joint ventures. An attempt was made, to identify development opportunities, depending on the terms of the capital, an indication of the benefits of innovation, as well as barriers. Carried out surveys helped assess the capabilities and the tendency of traders to make changes through the implementation of new solutions. A summary of the research have provided an indication of the constraints and examples of inventories in the current industry innovative actions that have already started or in additional industry, different from currently existing. The results of the tests, will help evaluate the approach to innovation in each stage of business. The main study concentrates on small businesses with up to 49 employees from Wałbrzych and surrounding areas.