The SME Assembly 2025, organised by the European Commission in partnership with the Danish Presidency of the Council of the EU, took place in Copenhagen last month and featured three days of discussion and exchange under the theme “Successful SMEs, Competitive Europe”. The event confirmed its role as Europe’s premier gathering for small and medium-sized enterprises, uniting policymakers, entrepreneurs, academics and thought leaders around the ambition of building a stronger and more sustainable European economy.

Participants looked at how to equip Europe’s workforce with the skills and entrepreneurial mindset needed to support sustainable growth. Sessions covered unlocking international opportunities for SMEs, improving access to finance and venture capital, simplifying regulation and cutting red tape, and advancing innovation and sustainability in key sectors such as biotech, clean energy and resilient supply chains.

A highlight was the Schumpeter “Innovation in Enterprise” Lecture by Professor Friederike Welter, who offered insights on how entrepreneurial thinking can help build resilience and long-term competitiveness. Recordings of key sessions are now available to watch online.