Europees midden- en kleinbedrijf 2013: innovatie vormt een zakelijke kans (en)
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are a key driver for sustainable growth and job creation as they represent 99% of businesses in the EU. Therefore, supporting SMEs through ensuring a competitive business environment has always been high on the agenda of the European Commission. In the current economic situation these powerful motors of the economy in the Member States deserve even more attention to ensure that they have the means to develop their full potential and thus deliver smart, sustainable and inclusive growth- the main priorities of the Europe 2020 Strategy. To tackle this challenge, innovation and cutting-edge business ideas play a key role in remaining competitive.
EuroSME2013, a conference organised under the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU entitled “Innovation: A business Opportunity for SMEs” will focus on how these enterprises can integrate innovative methods in their business activity to achieve EU objective. The event, co-sponsored by Enterprise Ireland and the Commission, will bring together hundreds of entrepreneurs, policy makers, SME support organisations from the private and public sectors to create a networking experience and an opportunity to exchange ideas on how small companies can contribute to growth despite the challenges of the 21st century. Horizon 2020, the EU’s upcoming Framework Programme for Research and Innovation will be another highlight of the conference with presentations focusing on the SME-related specific features of the Programme.
The event is to be held on 11 and 12 June, 2013 in Dublin, Ireland.