Final evaluation report of results of SME Development Strategy unveiled

Chisinau, 24 June /MOLDPRES/- The validation workshop, dedicated to the presentation of the Final Evaluation Report on the results of the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Strategy for 2012-2020, prepared with the support of the team of experts of the European Union Technical Assistance Program took place on 23 June. The event was attended by representatives of the EU Delegation to the Republic of Moldova, the Ministries of Economy and Infrastructure, Finance, Education, Culture and Research, ODIMM, CCI and representatives of academia.

According to the Ministry of Economy and Infrastructure (MEI), the results of the analysis of the constraints and challenges faced by the SME sector during 2012-2020 were presented at the meeting, as well as the recommendations for elaboration of a new medium-term public policy document, dedicated to the SME sector.

The report is an impartial evaluation, based on questionnaires and interviews of the key actors that were involved in the process of implementing the Strategy. In this regard, 105 SMEs were surveyed online on 18 May -11 June, of which 64% are beneficiaries of state financial assistance programs, most of which have participated in the last 3 years. The highest percentage is found in categories, such as the level of satisfaction of beneficiaries, with over 60% for 7 out of 10 programs, including for the technical aspects of program implementation, with an even higher share of 80%. Also, in terms of perceived positive effects, most respondents reported increases in income, access to finance and accumulation of knowledge.

Attending the event, Lilia Palii, MEI Secretary General referred to importance of the evaluation, emphasizing that SMEs have a major value for the economy of Moldova, their share is 99 percent of total business.

"This assessment is important, and the results presented are of great value to us in developing a new program for SMEs, so that they can be supported in the post-pandemic recovery period," the secretary-general said. In the same context, Lilia Palii expressed gratitude to the team of experts for their professional approach in drafting the Report, but also to the EU Delegation for its support in implementing the Government's reform agenda and for its major interest in creating an environment conducive to SME development.

The development strategy of the small and medium enterprises sector for 2012-2020 was approved by the Moldovan government by September 2012 decision. Its purpose is to contribute to creating a favorable business environment, promoting entrepreneurial culture to support SMEs and ensuring social cohesion.

photo: MEI