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News article12 September 2022

Enterprise Europe Network presents SME Growth Outlook for 2019-20

The Enterprise Europe Network presents the SME Growth Outlook 2019-20. Based on survey data from businesses using the Network's services, the report provides insight into how Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) across Europe view growth in terms of turnover, workforce, market share, prospects for international expansion, and innovation.

SME Growth Outlook for 2019-20

The Enterprise Europe Network presents the SME Growth Outlook 2019-20. Based on survey data from businesses using the Network's services, the report provides insight into how Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) across Europe view growth in terms of turnover, workforce, market share, prospects for international expansion, and innovation.

Cautious optimism

The 2019 survey data shows that small businesses with international ambitions remain cautiously optimistic about their near-term growth. While optimism levels for turnover, market share and job creation over the coming year slightly fell compared to 2018, they remained broadly consistent with figures for the past two years.

 

 

According to the latest report, in the coming year:

  • 59% of SMEs who internationalise expect to increase their turnover,
  • 30% expect to create jobs, and
  • 49% expect to increase their market share.

Cutting the cost of international expansion

This year’s survey also illustrates the value of the Network’s services to SMEs who often perceive international expansion as a costly due to many constraints. In 2019, 81% of small businesses found that the Network helped them to make cost savings when entering new markets.

Satisfied clients

Satisfaction levels reached a new high: 88% of clients expressed satisfaction with the Network’s services and 92% would recommend its services to other small businesses.

The European Commission launched the Network in 2008. Over the past 11 years, the Network supported 3 million SMEs across Europe, providing advice to innovate and grow internationally, innovation services and access to new markets.

Learn more

Download the full SME Growth Outlook report, top insights and country data.