COSME- Europe’s programme for SMEs

The COSME program offers various types of support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Europe to enhance their competitiveness, growth, and sustainability. Here are some of the key types of support that the COSME program provides:

1. Access to Finance: COSME provides financial instruments and guarantees to help SMEs access funding for their business activities. This includes loans, guarantees, and equity financing options that can be particularly valuable for startups and growing businesses.
2. Guarantee Facilities: The program offers credit risk-sharing instruments and guarantees to financial intermediaries (e.g., banks and venture capital providers) to encourage them to lend to SMEs with limited collateral or credit history.
3. Equity Financing: COSME supports venture capital and private equity funds that invest in SMEs, helping them raise equity capital to expand their operations, develop new products, or enter new markets.
4. Capacity Building: COSME supports capacity-building initiatives for SMEs, including training, mentoring, and advisory services, to help them improve their management skills, business processes, and overall competitiveness.
5. Internationalization: The program assists SMEs in expanding their business activities to international markets by providing information on export opportunities, market research, and guidance on navigating international trade regulations.
6. Innovation and Technology Transfer: COSME supports initiatives that encourage innovation, technology transfer, and research and development activities among SMEs. This can include funding for collaborative projects and partnerships with research institutions.
7. Entrepreneurship Promotion: COSME promotes entrepreneurship by supporting initiatives that encourage individuals to start their own businesses. This can include programs for business incubation, entrepreneurship education, and access to mentorship.
8. Advocacy and Policy Support: The program works to improve the business environment for SMEs by advocating for policies and regulations that are favorable to small businesses. It seeks to reduce administrative burdens and create a more conducive environment for entrepreneurship.
9. Networking and Collaboration: COSME facilitates networking and collaboration among SMEs, business associations, and other stakeholders. This can help SMEs share knowledge, best practices, and access to new markets.
10. Access to Information: The program provides information and resources to SMEs, including guidance on EU regulations, funding opportunities, and market intelligence to help them make informed decisions.

It’s important to note that the specific types of support available through the COSME program may vary depending on the funding cycle, the needs of SMEs, and the priorities set by the European Commission. SMEs interested in accessing COSME support should check with the relevant national or regional authorities and organizations to learn about the specific opportunities and initiatives available in their area.