The research agenda will focus on the importance that effective leadership can have on the success of companies as they grow and transform into larger enterprises. Small companies and especially innovative small companies have been an increasingly important focus for government, regional and public investment and promise for economic development. Although much research has been undertaken in the area of leadership challenges, roles and types in larger organisations, there is a real need to analyse and understand the important role of leadership as small innovative companies grow and inevitably face increasing organisational, strategic and commercial challenges. This research will explore the factors affecting leadership and the types of leadership that are evident in small and innovative companies and SMES as these companies encounter challenges and increasing organisational complexity. It is envisaged that specific research questions will address leadership style transitions and leadership models under contextual boundaries, the influences and challenges on the leadership requirement in such companies, and the motivations and experience set of leaders operating in the small and medium company space.