Public consultation on the review of the SME definition

New open public consultation launched by the European Commission on 6 February 2018. The consultation is about the definition of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SME). The results of the consultation will be an important input for the evaluation and possible revision of some aspects of the SME definition that applies across EU policy areas*.

 

Consultation period:
6 February 2018 – 6 May 2018

 

Target group

All citizens and organisations are welcome to contribute to this consultation. Contributions are particularly sought from

  • national and regional authorities
  • enterprises, business associations or organisations
  • venture capital providers, research and academic institutions, and individual citizens.

Objective of the consultation

The SME definition as provided in Recommendation 2003/361/EC is the structural tool to identify enterprises that are confronted with market failures and particular challenges due to their size, and therefore are allowed to receive preferential treatment in public support.

It is a widely used tool in EU policies such as competition (state aid), structural funds, research and innovation (Horizon 2020). Moreover, the SME definition is relevant for some European administrative exemptions and reduced fees, such as for Regulation on registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals (REACH).

The Commission is currently preparing for an evaluation and possible revision of some aspects of the SME definition. This public consultation is part of this process and will allow any interested actor to provide feedback on the evaluation and impact assessment of the SME definition.

Learn more about the consultation>>>

Source: https://ec.europa.eu

 

*The online questionnaire is available in 23 official EU languages.