European Enterprise Promotion Awards focus on education

Promoting entrepreneurship as a viable and attractive career path among young people was a recurring theme in many of the entries received this year for the European Enterprise Promotion Awards (EEPA).

This year a total of 31 countries submitted entries, including all 28 EU member states, as well as Iceland, Serbia and Turkey. The European Commission said the awards showcase the most successful promoters of enterprise and entrepreneurship around Europe, as well as celebrating the best entrepreneurship policies and practices, creating a greater awareness of the role entrepreneurs play in society, and encouraging and inspiring budding entrepreneurs from across Europe.

Commission Vice-President Antonio Tajani, responsible for Industry and Entrepreneurship, said: “New businesses are the single biggest source of new jobs in Europe. Encouraging an entrepreneurial culture and improving the business environment is therefore critical for Europe’s recovery and growth.”

National competition winners will now go forward to compete in the pan-European Awards. Once the jury has reviewed the entries this summer, they will announce a shortlist of the top entrants in each category who will compete in the European competition. The six category winners, including one overall Grand Jury Prize winner, will be announced at the European Enterprise Promotion Awards Ceremony in October, during the SME Assembly in Naples, Italy.

The SME Assembly is the focus of European SME Week, which takes place from 29 September-5 October 2014.