Commission in scheme providing ICT support to SMEs
A blueprint on aid to help micro-enterprises and small business to develop ICT infrastructure has been published by the European Commission. The scheme focuses on the use of vouchers worth up to €10,000 in order for firms to purchase and make use of ICT services.
The Commission has pointed to the Spanish regions of Murcia and Extremadura as successful examples of where pilot schemes are aiding business.
Neelie Kroes, the member of the Commission with responsibility for the Digital Agenda commented: “Small businesses using digital services grow twice as fast, export twice as much, and create twice as many new jobs. Everyone should benefit the way Murcia and Extremadura are benefitting in Spain.”
Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Regional Policy, Johannes Hahn also said: “Giving access to digital technologies is one of the many ways that Regional Policy can help small businesses be more competitive. For 2014-20 the digital agenda and support for SMEs are key priorities for structural funds. SMEs are the lifeblood of Europe’s economies and the source of future jobs in our cities and regions.”
According to data on G20 countries, small businesses embracing digital technologies increase competitiveness, exports and domestic market opportunities.
Under the regional voucher schemes, small businesses will be able to exchange their vouchers for specialist training.
The EU is of the opinion that companies are adopting ICT too slowly today.
