The financial stability of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) depends on their ability to identify and effectively combine available financial resources in the context of a dynamically evolving economic environment. Traditional forms of capital financing remain dominant despite the growing availability of innovative instruments whose potential often goes underutilized. Limited awareness of alternatives and the absence of a systematic approach to financial diversification reduce the capacity of enterprises to respond effectively to changing market conditions. The study draws on primary data collected through a questionnaire survey conducted on a sample of SMEs operating within the Slovak Republic. The segment of innovative external financial resources is marginally represented in the analyzed sample. The observed low level of utilization highlights the need for systematic development and improved information flows on alternative capital. Given their increasing accessibility, lower costs compared to conventional sources, and flexibility in addressing the specific characteristics of enterprises, modern approaches constitute a strategically significant tool with high application potential. Effective implementation of modern financial practices requires purposefully designed interventions that support combined models of traditional and innovative funding, along with the systematic enhancement of financial literacy at the level of enterprise decision-making. The limited size of the survey sample restricts the generalizability of the findings. Results confirm the importance of strategic diversification of financial resources for SME resilience and highlight the need for a systematic approach to financial management.
