Developing SMEs

Our knowledge of SMEs is grounded in years of experience and successes expressed in hundreds of grants obtained for companies in this sector. PFI Polska experts have knowledge not only of how to obtain funding for businesses, but also of ongoing support.

Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the driving force of the European economy. They are an essential source of jobs, create entrepreneurial spirit and innovation in the EU and are therefore crucial for fostering competitiveness and employment.

SMEs are defined by three keywords: small, individual, and local:

1. Small – SMEs are small in nature – either in terms of the number of (a) employees – ranging from 10 for “small” to 200 for “medium”, depending on country regulations, (b) capital and assets – limited working capital and assets, and (c) turnover – the total turnover of the company is small, compared to larger companies.
2. Single – Most SMEs have a single owner who may also be the only employee. While this may be the case in most cases, definitions identify 250 to 500 employees as the limit for businesses that can be called SMEs. The word “single” also refers to single products manufactured or services provided.
3. Local – SMEs are generally local – their market is usually located in the area in which they are located (same city, neighborhood or state); or they may be “local” in the sense that they operate from a place of residence – also called SOHO [Small Office Home Office].

Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the driving force of the European economy. They are an essential source of jobs, create entrepreneurial spirit and innovation in the EU and are therefore crucial for fostering competitiveness and employment.

Günter Verheugen,
Member of the European Commission responsible for
for Enterprise and Industry