Cohesion Policy and Small Businesses – The launch pad for SMEs Prof Cohesion Policy and Small Businesses – The launch pad for SMEs Prof. Danuta Hübner Regional Policy Commissioner Press briefing 09 July 2008

SMEs are the backbone of the European Economy 23 million SMEs in Europe, representing 99% of all businesses in the EU SMEs provide about 2/3 of all private sector jobs in the EU SMEs are responsible for almost all net job creation in the EU SMEs are a major source of regional, economic and social cohesion

Small businesses are top priority of Cohesion Policy 2007-2013 Cohesion Policy is the biggest provider of EU funds supporting Small Businesses. Total business support 2007 and 2013: €55 billion of which 50% is directly targeted to support for small businesses

€ 27 bn of support specifically dedicated to Small Businesses

SME targeted support (relative share 2007-13 by Member State)

Cohesion Policy and small businesses: not just money Integrated approach and access to finance Local action – close to the real concerns of SMEs Helping diversification Innovative support measures Networking and clusters

Cohesion Policy and Small Businesses Prof Cohesion Policy and Small Businesses Prof. Danuta Hübner Regional Policy Commissioner