Forging Connections for One-Person Companies: Establishing a Collaborative Platform for OPC Owners, Entrepreneurs, and Supportive Partners

On Wednesday, 7 February, SME Connect organized a virtual gathering on the topic of “Forging Connections for One-Person Companies: Establishing a Collaborative Platform for OPC Owners, Entrepreneurs, and Supportive Partners”. On this occasion, we gathered on Zoom with OPC owners and other interested parties to kick-off the SME Connect Working Group on Entrepreneurship, One-Person Companies and Self-Employment virtual meetings and to delve into the pressing issues of self-employment and how to run a successful business independently. This event was hosted by JASMIN LEHETA, OPC Entrepreneur, Chair of the SME Connect Working Group on Entrepreneurship, OPC-s and Self-Employment.

The event featured entrepreneurs and speakers including JASMIN LEHETA, OPC Entrepreneur, Chair of the SME Connect Working Group on Entrepreneurship, OPC-s and Self-Employment; DANIELA HEGGMAIER, Communication consultant and PR-mentor; THOMAS WIELAND, OPC-Entrepreneur focusing on high-quality headshot photography; and DR. HORST HEITZ, Chair of the Steering Committee of SME Connect.

While self-employment offers autonomy and the freedom to choose one’s work, it also presents challenges such as bureaucratic obstacles that can consume significant time. It was agreed that addressing these challenges requires acting as a collaborative group to share experiences and identify legislative shortcomings affecting the self-employed.

The discussion underscored the importance of staying informed about market dynamics, consumer behavior and evolving business landscapes. However, many entrepreneurs face initial reluctance to seek help due to financial constraints, highlighting the need for financial support mechanisms and infrastructure enhancements, especially in rural areas.

Support for one-person companies can also be fostered through community building and mentorship programs. Simplifying bureaucracy and providing service-oriented support were also identified as valuable initiatives for entrepreneurs. In conclusion, this virtual gathering once again emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to advocate for proactive policies and engage one-person companies in policy discussions that directly impact them.