The golden triangle of the European Congress of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises

According to the European Innovation Scoreboard 2025, Poland is among the lowest ranked EU countries in terms of the “Innovative SMEs collaborating with others” indicator and the number of public-private activities, which directly indicates the need for stronger cooperation between science, business and administration. This year’s edition of the Congress plans to remedy this situation.

The power of cooperation: business, science and local government

This year’s edition of the event, which will traditionally be attended by several thousand people from Poland and abroad, strengthens the reputation of EKMSME as the largest platform for the exchange of knowledge and experience for the SME sector in Europe. Last year, nearly 10,000 participants took part in the congress in a hybrid formula. These are not only representatives of the small and medium-sized enterprise sector, but also academic circles and local government. Thanks to this, the congress is an excellent opportunity to build a network of contacts and exchange knowledge, experiences and good practices.

This year, during the congress, local government officials will have the opportunity to present the effects of their activities and visions of further development of the cities they manage. Discussions will include, among others: as part of the panels: “Mobility and logistics in the cities of the future. The role of SMEs” and “Smart cities – how can SMEs co-create Smart City?” The selection of these topics emphasizes the importance of small and medium-sized enterprises, which – by offering modern solutions supporting the efficient functioning of cities – will gain space for conversations and building relationships with representatives of local governments.

An important issue discussed during the congress will also be the directions of development of academic education in Poland, especially in the area of ​​the use of artificial intelligence. The discussion on this topic will be led by representatives of the world of science and business during the panel “The future of education and competences in the era of AI”. In turn, the impact of artificial intelligence on improving the functioning of enterprises will be discussed during the panel “Artificial intelligence as an everyday business tool”.

A new quality of the economy

As experts emphasize, the combination of the knowledge of scientists, the entrepreneurial energy of companies and the support of the administration allows, among others, for: faster implementation of new technologies, better adjustment of education to the needs of the labor market, development of local business and start-up ecosystems, and sustainable development of cities and regions.

Cooperation of the following environments: business, science and local government, i.e. the so-called “golden triangle”, is the key to ensuring economic growth. Our goal is to create a space in which these three forces can work together, building a new quality of the economy – emphasizes Tomasz Zjawiony, President of RIG in Katowice, Vice-President of European Entrepreneurs CEA-PME.

New formats, even more possibilities

The EKMSME program includes expert panels, workshops, thematic discussions and networking meetings. This year, participants will also be able to take part in new formats, conducive to building lasting relationships and exchanging experiences between leaders of various sectors.

Registration is ongoing

Congress participants can take part in numerous panels, discussions and networking meetings – including new, interactive formats.

Registration is free.

For people who want to get additional amenities, GOLD and PLATINUM packages have been prepared, including: a parking space at the congress center and an invitation to a banquet and gala with an accompanying person.