The 13th edition of the European Small and Mid-Cap Awards will honour Europe’s most dynamic and successful small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs). Organised by the Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs (DG GROW) of the European Commission, in partnership with EuropeanIssuers, the Federation of European Securities Exchanges (FESE) and, for the first time, the European Investment Fund (EIF), the Awards will take place on 11 November 2025 in Copenhagen, during the SME Assembly.

Twelve shortlisted companies from across Europe will compete in four categories: Rising Star, International Star, Star of Innovation, and Star of Sustainability. In addition, the Star of 2025 will distinguish the best overall entry, while a Special Mention will recognise a major contribution to improving SMEs’ access to capital markets.

Launched in 2013 as a joint initiative by EuropeanIssuers and FESE, with the support of the European Commission, the Awards aim to promote best practices and encourage more SMEs to finance their growth through public markets. Since 2020, they have been an integral part of the European Commission’s annual SME Assembly.

SMEs represent over 98% of all European businesses, generating two-thirds of employment and contributing nearly 60% of the EU’s gross value added. By showcasing excellence among listed SMEs, the Awards not only celebrate individual achievements but also highlight the diversity and strength of European capital markets, supporting the EU’s broader objectives of fostering innovation, competitiveness and sustainable economic growth.