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SMEunited welcomes decision on SME definition

29 September 2021
by smeunited -- last modified 29 September 2021

SMEunited warmly welcomes the result of the evaluation of the SME definition published by the European Commission today.


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The evaluation is completely in line with repeated SMEunited statements and clearly shows that the definition remains relevant, fit for purpose and is effective in reaching its objectives.

As the current definition already covers 99,8% of all European enterprises, further widening the scope would result in even more companies being considered as SMEs. As a consequence, this will disadvantage micro, small and medium-sized enterprises that have less capacities and truly need support. The two-year transition period – the period during which an enterprise can keep its SME status when it has exceeded the thresholds – is also considered to remain unchanged.

SMEunited is pleased that the definition maintains the existing ownership criterion. Small autonomous local authorities, as well as companies with investments by venture capital companies can already benefit from the advantages of the SME definition.

The Commission decision is in line with the SMEunited position that mid-caps should not be dealt with under the current SME Definition. Support to mid-caps should be provided exclusively by new funding and should not use resources which are reserved to SMEs.

SMEunited, formerly known as UEAPME, is the association of crafts and SMEs in Europe with around 70 member organisations from over 30 European countries. SMEunited is a recognised employers' organisation and European Social Partner and acts on behalf of crafts and SMEs in the European Social Dialogue and in discussions with the EU institutions.

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