Brussels SMEs face barriers to innovation and expansion, according to the report. Enterprise Europe Network supports them through tailored advice and a structured client journey. This helps them secure funding, build partnerships, and drive sustainable growth. Could 2026 mark a turning point for Brussels SMEs amid economic uncertainty and transition phases?
Brussels SMEs face barriers when trying to innovate, expand, and enter new markets, as the report states. The Enterprise Europe Network (EEN), a key instrument of the European Union, is the world’s largest business support network. They provide customized advice and an expert-led “Client Journey”. This includes access to funding, partnerships, and international markets. A conversation with an advisor and a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis are the first steps in the process. During 2022-2025, over 250,000 SMEs receive tailored guidance each year. Thousands of SMEs report increases in revenues and job creation.
Engine for Brussels in the global market
During 2022-2025, Enterprise Europe Network gained success in helping SMEs benefit from the single market. Companies did not just expand. In fact, 84% of these companies successfully launched a product or service in a new country. This growth translated into real impact on the ground. Over 13,464 jobs were created or maintained by SMEs. Innovation remained at the heart of these achievements. 90% of these companies introduced a new or improved product or service. At the same time, sustainability became a priority. 91% of companies have improved their environmental impact. This includes energy efficiency, reduction of waste and emissions, and the use of renewable energies. Digital transformation also took a major step forward. 88% of the companies implemented digital business solutions. This includes e-commerce, better online presence, better digital management of business, and production processes. Finally, access to finance helped turn ambition into action. 78% of companies secured funding through EU programmes. Together, these results highlight how targeted support guides SMEs to success.
3 years with EEN: 84% international success & 13,464 jobs created or sustained.
The satisfaction rates with the Enterprise Europe Network are high within the SME community. 99% of companies rate its services as high or good quality. 91% say it meets their needs extremely or very well. Trust and loyalty are also remarkably strong. 99% of the existing clients would recommend the network’s services and are happy to work with it again. Beyond satisfaction, companies report clear business benefits. 80% of participating SMEs report increased competitiveness and resilience. Innovation is another key outcome. Around 70% of SMEs improved innovation capabilities. Finally, international growth is a major success area. More than 35% of them expanded their market reach and built international partnerships.
Tailored guidance for Brussels
Experts from Enterprise Europe Network are from chambers of commerce and regional agencies. This ensures access to local contact points that combine regional knowledge with market insights. The network’s influence is clear: turning the potential of Brussels-based SMEs into economic growth and job creation. By fostering innovation and providing expert knowledge, these companies can overcome global volatility.
SMEs can take part in dedicated business events and explore concrete collaboration opportunities in the region. Beci and Enterprise Europe Brussels offer tailored guidance to Brussels companies - from market insights and access to opportunities to partner search in different countries. For more information, contact Beci’s international team : international@beci.be.
EEN Impact at a Glance
International: 84% of companies successfully launched a product or service in a new country.
Jobs: 13,464 jobs were created or maintained.
Innovation: 90% of SMEs introduced an innovation to the market; 70% improved their overall innovation capabilities.
Sustainability: 91% of companies reduced their environmental footprint.
Digitalization: 88% adopted digital solutions (e-commerce, operations).
Funding: 78% secured funding through EU programmes.
The SME Verdict: 91% state that the support met their needs perfectly
Source : The Enterprise Europe Network Impact Report 2022-2025.
By Sudenaz Sahin
