Shape the Future Now — this is the slogan for the largest event in Europe dedicated to small and medium-sized enterprises. The 14th European Congress of SMEs will take place on 29–30 October 2024 at the International Congress Centre in Katowice.
The Congress is designed for entrepreneurs, featuring leading experts and practitioners. Discussions and debates with representatives from the European Parliament, top government officials, ministries, and agencies will be organised specifically for entrepreneurs.
Since 2011, the Congress has been a source of inspiration, networking, and knowledge sharing. At last year’s event, nearly 6,500 participants attended, including 24 foreign delegations. Over the course of 100 panels and speeches, more than 170 speakers shared their expertise. Over 13 previous editions, the Congress has attracted tens of thousands of participants from the worlds of business, science, politics, and economics. This year will feature several dozen speeches, panel sessions, workshops, and the popular B2B meeting zone, with participation from both local and international experts.
Programme For The Event
The core programme of the Congress will be divided into 9 thematic paths: Shape the Future Now, The Company is People, Tech Trends Poland – Startups and Innovation, Law and Taxes, Finance, Marketing and Sales, Smart City for Business, Going Global, and a series of talks focused on 20 Years of Poland in the EU.
There will also be accompanying events, including American Day and Think Eco!, forums which will broaden and enrich the programme with an international and ecological perspective. The annual RIG Community Gala in Katowice will also see the presentation of the 14th ECSME Economic Awards. This ceremonial event will provide a unique opportunity to bring together entrepreneurs with representatives from the worlds of science and culture.
Opportunities To Establish Relationships And Promote Business
One of the most important aspects of the Congress is the opportunity to establish business relationships. Entrepreneurs will have the chance to meet with representatives from companies around the world, which can lead to new partnerships and collaborations. The Business Expo, which accompanies the Congress, also allows participants to showcase their products and services, with access to advertising space, providing an excellent opportunity to enhance brand recognition.
Sharing Knowledge And Discussing The Future Of The Economy
The European SME Congress is also a place where entrepreneurs can gain insights into the latest trends and 
economic changes. Discussions featuring experts, government representatives, local authorities, and business institutions will enable participants to better understand the challenges and opportunities facing the SME sector in Poland and Europe. Engaging in these debates offers a unique chance to influence the region’s economic future.
Who Is The Congress For?
The Congress is primarily aimed at entrepreneurs from the SME sector, but it is also open to companies, organisations, and institutions working alongside SMEs. Representatives from national and regional authorities, universities, business organisations, and cultural institutions will also be in attendance, making the Congress a unique platform for fostering dialogue and cooperation across various levels.
Participation in the European Congress of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in Katowice is free of charge, and companies interested in actively participating in the 14th ECSME can apply by email or telephone.
Organiser
The organiser of the European Congress of SMEs is the Katowice Chamber of Commerce and Industry. For over 34 years, the Chamber has been a leader in organising industry events, supporting regional business growth, and providing business and communication consulting services to its member companies. It facilitates connections with both domestic and international partners and promotes ethics, integrity in business, and corporate social responsibility.
For businesses and individuals interested in attending, registration is available online, and those seeking to partner or contribute to the event can contact:
Oliwia Chmiel
Email: ochmiel@rig.katowice.pl
Tel.: +48 32 781 48 64
Free registration: https://ekmsp.eu/en-us/register