Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Europe: Challenges, Opportunities, and Sustainability
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Europe: Challenges, Opportunities, and Sustainability" is a compelling and data-rich exploration of the evolving landscape for Europe’s 23 million small businesses. This book dives deep into the pivotal role SMEs play in the economy, their challenges in adapting to the EU’s sustainability agenda, and how they can become key players in Europe’s green and digital transition.
With sharp insights, case studies, expert commentary, and real statistics, this book outlines how regulatory pressure, particularly through the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), is reshaping the SME ecosystem. But instead of presenting problems only, it delivers actionable policy recommendations, practical support strategies, and a strong call to empower SMEs—not penalize them.
Whether you're a policymaker, SME owner, economist, sustainability advisor, or student of business, this book offers a clear, well-structured guide to understanding and improving the future of Europe's small business sector in the age of innovation and ESG.
Audience: Policymakers, business leaders, entrepreneurs, economists, and sustainability professionals. Core Message: SMEs are essential to Europe's economy, but they are underprepared for new ESG reporting and innovation demands. Support—not sanctions—is the key to progress. Chapters Include: The economic impact and scale of SMEs in Europe Digital transformation and reporting challenges The “Stop the Clock” campaign and regulatory delays SME-led innovation with real-world success stories Practical policy recommendations for governments and the EU Expert insights, case studies, and infographics Highlights: ✓ 10+ credible data sources ✓ Real case studies from Italy, Germany, and Spain ✓ Quotes from economists and SME leaders ✓ A call to action that bridges policy and practice