From Barriers to Breakthroughs:
Advancing SME Growth Through the Next Phase of the Single Market

SMEs are widely recognised as the engine of Europe’s economy — yet persistent barriers to cross-border digital trade continue to hinder their growth. As the European Commission prepares to unveil its new Single Market Strategy, this event, part of the SME Connect Digital Tools Platform Episodes in cooperation with Amazon, provides a timely opportunity to bring SME voices to the forefront of the policy discussion. The dialogue will focus on real-life experiences of SMEs from across major Member States — including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Poland, and Denmark — as they face challenges such as administrative burdens, regulatory fragmentation, limited labour mobility, and barriers to innovation when operating across EU borders. Beyond the speakers, a broader group of SME entrepreneurs will participate as special guests, contributing their perspectives in an open exchange with Members of the European Parliament and EU stakeholders. This inclusive format ensures a wider representation of the day-to-day realities and aspirations of Europe’s business community. To enrich the discussion, participants will also hear a first glimpse of findings from a forthcoming study capturing SME insights on the Single Market and identifying opportunities for reform. By bringing together real-life stories and forward-looking perspectives, the event hopes to contribute to shaping a future Single Market strategy that better supports Europe’s SMEs.