Blog

For SMEs from island regions, scaling abroad often starts with a different set of realities. Distance, connectivity, language, visibility and market access can all shape how international opportunities are found, built and sustained.

Through the experience of Enterprise Europe Network advisers working with companies from La Réunion, this article explores five daily realities of growing across borders from an island region, and what other SMEs can learn from them.

Scaling is widely seen as the natural next step for growing businesses. Entering new markets, finding partners, and expanding operations are common priorities. But for many SMEs, the real challenge comes earlier. Before growth can happen, the business itself needs to be clearly defined, structured, and ready to scale.

Across different sectors, companies supported by the Enterprise Europe Network show that stepping back can be a critical turning point. Whether it is refining a business model, addressing internal bottlenecks, or turning an idea into a viable solution, this phase helps determine long-term success. These experiences highlight the importance of building the right foundations before moving forward.

Ten years can change the shape of a career, but some decisions continue to influence how that journey unfolds long after they are made. In 2015, Susan Hayes Culleton, ‘The Positive Economist’ and experienced international professional,  took her first steps into international markets with the support of the Enterprise Europe Network. Today, exporting remains a core pillar of her business.

Le Terre di Zoè, a family-run business in the agri-food sector, has transformed seasonal agricultural waste into an opportunity for sustainable innovation through a project that brings together art, technology, and agriculture.

What does a hydrogen retrofit company in Spain have in common with a deeptech health startup in Portugal? At first glance, not much. Yet EVARM and PONS both turned ambitious ideas into impact thanks to the combined support of the Enterprise Europe Network and the European Institute of Innovation and Technology.

Their stories reveal five key lessons for startups everywhere: from leveraging networks early and securing funding with mentorship, to building cross-border partnerships, keeping users at the centre, and staying resilient.

In a world of saturated markets and shrinking attention spans, innovative SMEs must go beyond great products: they need smart, strategic communication to succeed globally. Discover five powerful tips to help businesses elevate their promotional game, from mastering the art of timing to embracing creativity and emotional connection. If you're looking to take your company’s message to new international heights, these practical insights will guide you towards achieving your goals.

Starting a business on a tight budget? You don’t need a huge marketing budget to see real results. In this article, we’ll share 4 affordable marketing strategies for small businesses, showing you how to take advantage of opportunities your competitors might overlook.

Resilience is key to overcoming setbacks, uncertainty, and the daily challenges of running a business. In this blog, communication expert Emma Ewing and well-being coach Tammy Barter break down what resilience means, why it’s crucial for success, and how to build it – so you can make better decisions, stay motivated, and tackle tough situations with confidence.

Is Texas your next big opportunity? You’re probably thinking of sizzling fajitas, rugged cowboys, or the sweet sound of Willie Nelson strumming his guitar. Well, Texas has all of that, but it’s also the world’s eighth largest economy and soon-to-be home to its own stock exchange. As we say here, it ain’t bragging if it’s true. 

But jumping into a new market can feel overwhelming. The European American Chamber of Commerce (EACC) Texas, a partner of Enterprise Europe Network, is here to help your business succeed. Keep reading for 5 tips on how to make the most of what Texas has to offer.

Start-ups need funding, mentorship, and networks to scale. Big companies are looking for fresh ideas, disruptive tech, and faster ways to stay ahead. When they join forces, both sides win. Keep reading for 6 easy steps to make this partnership a success.