In an effort to revitalize Spain’s business fabric, the Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan has been established as an essential resource for the growth and modernization of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the country. Since its launch three years ago, the plan has channelled over 42.612 billion euros towards various initiatives and projects, allocating a noteworthy 39.5% of this funding directly to SMEs, reaffirming their crucial role in the national economy.
With a total of 528,798 SMEs benefiting in some way from the plan, the figures reflect a clear boost in terms of growth and expansion. In fact, two out of every five euros of the plan have been directed towards these companies, with one in five receiving funding from the RTRP. These data underscore the special attention that the program pays to this business segment.
Upon further examination of the plan’s details, a significant effort to enhance SMEs’ participation in national tenders and calls is evident, with 80% of the funding allocated to governmental calls. Of these, 122 measures worth 15.687 billion euros have been exclusively dedicated to SMEs, facilitating their growth and market participation.
Since the implementation of the RTRP, there has been a 12% increase in the number of small and medium-sized enterprises, accompanied by a significant growth in employment, with the creation of over 800,000 new jobs. This surge, representing a 13% increase in the size and number of SMEs, has been particularly highlighted in small and medium sectors, thus consolidating a more robust productive fabric in Spain.
The plan’s strategy also includes a cross-cutting approach. Specific programs and financing lines aimed at the digitization, innovation, and sustainability of SMEs have been launched. For example, Component 13 brings together 4.894 billion euros in grants and 58.103 billion in loans.
The variety of available programs is wide-ranging: from the Digital Kit and the Consulting Kit, to initiatives such as the UNICO-BONO PYME, which seeks to enhance business connectivity. In addition, programs focused on sustainable mobility, ecological transition, and technological development, such as the PERTE for electric vehicles and the digitization of the agri-food sector, are available to SMEs to promote their adaptation to new market demands.
The Recovery Plan not only focuses on the present, but also anticipates future developments and business needs with several upcoming calls aimed at different key economic sectors. These include programs for electrification, circular economy, and boosting strategic technological sectors, in which SMEs are invited to participate proactively.
With the goal of integrating digital and ecological transition into everyday business practices, courses and certification standards are being promoted, facilitating SMEs to adapt and thrive in a changing and demanding environment.
As the plan progresses in its execution, the commitment to strengthen SMEs as fundamental pillars of the Spanish economy remains active. This commitment is manifested not only through financial support but also through regulatory reforms and training, aiming to achieve a more competitive, resilient, and dynamic business ecosystem.
via: MiMub in Spanish
