The Forum
The objective of the Forum, which was held with the friendly assistance of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), was to identify shared concerns with respect to facilitating access to finance for SMEs.
SMEs representatives had the opportunity to express to European institutions, banks and other relevant stakeholders what kind of difficulties they face when seeking for financial support, particularly in the context of the recent financial crisis.
For co-operative banks, it was also an opportunity to reinforce their commitment with providing services for SMEs and to make the audience aware of their specificities as locally-rooted entities, which have helped them to come out of the current crisis in a relatively strong position. However, it is nevertheless essential that new institutional developments do not hinder their performance.
In turn, guarantee funds representatives could present their national schemes and initiatives for the benefit of SMEs.
For their part, The European Investment Bank and the European Commission were invited to discuss their official support schemes to allow banks to provide financial aid to their customers, and in particular to SMEs.
Finally, participants could also learn about the Business Angels networks and activities targeted for SMEs.
Outcome & next steps
One of the main objectives of these round-table discussions was to not only make all stakeholders aware of the present situation and of the burdens and challenges that exist for SMEs but also to define the respective duties and responsibilities of each stakeholder. The discussions and the sharing of best practices may help especially the banks and also the European and international authorities to define appropriate instruments and solutions favourable to SMEs.
To overcome existing difficulties it is essential that dialogues of this kind are held regularly in the future.
CIBP in the Forum
CIBP is not defined as a lobbying organisation but it nevertheless acts as a platform for communication and networking between co-operative banking organisations from around the world.
Since the relationship with SMEs represents the core business of co-operative banks, CIBP deems it essential to offer and facilitate the dialogue between co-operative banks, SMEs and other relevant stakeholders having a comprehensive perspective that includes long-term views.
Therefore, CIBP will continue to be committed to all initiatives and actions which help its members build up a good collaboration and valuable relationship with SMEs.
Finally, CIBP would like to thank all persons, organisations and partners who contributed to the success of the Forum.
