International initiatives on small and medium-sized enterprises

24.4.2015

Question for written answer E-006661-15
to the Commission
Rule 130
Nicola Caputo (S&D)

Commissioner Elżbieta Bieńkowska stated that the framework conditions for innovation are essential and that it is therefore necessary to create an innovation‐friendly environment during hearings for the Juncker Commission.

Those enterprises that invest in innovation and open themselves up to foreign sales channels have markedly higher business volumes. SMEs are far more flexible and capable of change in comparison to large undertakings — 59% of small and medium‐sized enterprises currently invest in innovation while offering competitive, low‐cost services. On the other hand, only 22% of SMEs participate in European funding programmes, and less than half use public funds strategically. The relationship between innovation and internationalisation is underexploited, while information concerning partnership programmes and public funds and SMEs’ access opportunities thereto are deficient.

1. In light of the above, how does the Commission plan to support SMEs in order to facilitate their participation in international markets and help them achieve tangible results in terms of economic and employment growth?

2. How does it plan to encourage SMEs' participation in European funding and information programmes with the aim of enhancing their use of technology and innovation in productive processes?

3. How does it plan to encourage synergy and cooperation between Member States and the EU in providing preferential channels for SMEs?