Abstract

Purpose – This paper sets out to examine the increasing importance of small firms in the European
Union (EU). It further contrasts policy making in EU member states and it traces the development of
an emerging EU-wide policy-making process.
Design/methodology/approach – Theories of entrepreneurship are drawn upon and data on the
role of small firms are considered.
Findings – Evidence suggests that some reorganisation of policy making in this field may be
justified.
Research limitations/implications – The limitations of current policy making are considered and
suggestions are made on how enterprise policy making should be shaped in the future.
Originality/value – Further work contrasting the success of other global competitors may also be
warranted.
Keywords Small to medium-sized enterprises, European Union
Paper type Research paper