INTERNAL MARKET, INDUSTRY, ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND SMES - Key Insights and Highlights from the 2024 Annual Conference of the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN)

The 2024 Annual Conference of the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) gathered over 1,000 participants in Budapest and online to discuss strategies for boosting the potential of European SMEs. The conference held discussions about SMEs’ needs relevant to the upcoming Single Market Strategy, as well as touched upon issues such as public procurement challenges, sustainability reporting, and the forthcoming EU Biotech Hub. Sessions also focused on AI, dual-use technologies, and resilience planning, alongside discussions on scaling up SME support and aligning EU regulations. The conference reinforced the EEN’s dedication to empowering SMEs through innovation, collaboration, and targeted support.

date: 18/11/2024

EEN 2024 Annual Conference: Empowering European SMEs for the Future

From November 6-8, Budapest became a hub for innovation and collaboration as it hosted the 2024 Annual Conference of the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN). Themed “Boosting the potential of European SMEs”, the event attracted 800 in-person and 200 online participants, including industry experts, policymakers, and business leaders.

Key Highlights

A standout session focused on SME and EEN member expectations from the new Commission, particularly regarding the upcoming Single Market Strategy. Critical needs identified included:

Simplified, coherent regulations without overlap.
Increased funding and indirect support to aid SME internationalisation.
Stronger integration between EEN and the European Innovation Council (EIC).
Enhanced advisory services for regulatory guidance on sustainability and compliance.
Coherence between GDPR, the AI Act, and NIS 2.
Equal criteria for regional funding allocation.

Sessions and Workshops

The conference offered diverse discussions and workshops, highlighting:

Public Procurement Challenges: Tackling SME barriers in Innovation Public Procurement (IPP) and strategic procurement.
EU Biotech Hub: Presented by DG GROW, this session introduced plans for the new Biotech Hub and an EEN Taskforce on Biotech & Biomanufacturing.
Single Market Developments: Explored updates from the Letta report and new tools for navigating the Single Market.
AI in Business: Addressed ethical concerns, the AI Act, and AI’s role in marketing, funding, and design for SMEs.
Dual-Use Technologies: Highlighted support for SMEs in the defence sector via the European Defence Fund.
Sustainability Reporting: Emphasised SME struggles with compliance and the need for tailored sustainability assessment tools.
Resilience and Preparedness: Introduced the European Economic Security Strategy and feedback mechanisms for value chain disruptions.

Networking and Side Meetings

Beyond formal sessions, the conference facilitated bilateral meetings and side discussions on scaling up SME support, maximising non-financial backing, and aligning EEN strategies with new EU priorities and the future Competitiveness Fund.

Looking Ahead

The 2024 Annual Conference reaffirmed EEN’s commitment to addressing SME challenges and harnessing innovation for a competitive and sustainable future. By evolving its strategies and strengthening collaboration, EEN is ensuring European SMEs are poised to thrive in an ever-changing market landscape.