Framework conditions conducive to SMEs
The studies in this research area examine which legal, political and regional framework conditions support SMEs in their transformations. Closely linked to this is the question of how the regulatory framework should be designed for the future in order to maintain and strengthen the national and international competitiveness of SMEs.
4 Results
Framework conditions supporting SMEs | 2026 The importance of social infrastructure for securing labour and skilled workers for small and medium-sized enterprises
The shortage of labour and skilled workers is one of the key challenges for the German economy. In addition to immigration, increasing the weekly working hours of women is seen as another way of alleviating the shortage of labour and skilled workers.
Framework conditions supporting SMEs | 2025 Impacts of international crises on Mittelstand enterprises' access to foreign markets and resources
Minimising risks related to international trade is regarded as a key challenge for the German economy, alongside the "green and digital transformation" and demographic change.
Framework conditions supporting SMEs | 2024 Practice Checks for Medium-Sized Businesses
The federal government aims to relieve businesses by reducing unnecessary bureaucracy. The current coalition agreement (p. 26) outlines the intention to "develop a systematic procedure for reviewing the bureaucratic effort of laws and regulations, involving stakeholders regularly (practice check)."
Framework conditions supporting SMEs | 2024 Regulatory framework conditions for a future-oriented SME policy
The Climate Protection Act stipulates that Germany must achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045. This goal is to be reached in an economically efficient manner, which is in general best achieved through a forward-looking realignment of the relevant framework conditions.