The Golden Triangle of the European Congress of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises

For the fifteenth time, Katowice will become a European center of dialogue and inspiration. ECSME will bring together representatives of business, science, and local government at the International Congress Center, creating a unique space where ideas, partnerships, and new development opportunities are born. According to the European Innovation Scoreboard 2025, Poland is among the lowest-ranked EU countries in terms of the “Innovative SMEs collaborating with others” indicator and the number of public-private activities, which clearly points to the need for stronger cooperation between science, business, and administration. This year's edition of the Congress plans to remedy this situation..

The power of cooperation: business, science, and local government

This year's edition of the event, which will traditionally be attended by several thousand people from Poland and abroad, reinforces the reputation of ECSME as Europe's largest platform for the exchange of knowledge and experience for the SME sector. Last year, in a hybrid format, the congress was attended by nearly 10,000 participants. These included not only representatives of the small and medium-sized enterprise sector, but also academia and local government. This makes the congress an excellent opportunity to build networks and exchange knowledge, experience, and best practices.

This year, during the congress, local government officials will have the opportunity to present the results of their activities and their visions for the further development of the cities they manage. Discussions will take place, among others, as part of the panels: “Mobility and logistics in the cities of the future. The role of SMEs” and “Smart cities – how can SMEs co-create Smart Cities?”. The choice of these topics emphasizes the importance of small and medium-sized enterprises, which, by offering modern solutions that support the efficient functioning of cities, will gain space for discussions and building relationships with local government representatives.

Another important issue to be addressed during the congress will be the directions of development of academic education in Poland, especially in the area of artificial intelligence. The discussion on this topic will be led by representatives of the world of science and business during the panel “The future of education and skills in the age of AI.” The impact of artificial intelligence on improving the functioning of enterprises will be discussed during the panel “Artificial intelligence as an everyday business tool."

A new quality of economy

As experts emphasize, combining the knowledge of scientists, the entrepreneurial energy of companies, and the support of the administration allows, among other things, for faster implementation of new technologies, better alignment of education with the needs of the labor market, development of local business and start-up ecosystems, and sustainable development of cities and regions..

"Cooperation between business, science, and local government, the so-called ‘golden triangle,’ is the key to ensuring economic growth. Our goal is to create a space where these three forces can work together to build a new quality of economy,” – emphasizes Tomasz Zjawiony, President of RIG in Katowice, Vice President of European Entrepreneurs CEA-PME.

New formats, even more opportunities

The ECSME agenda includes expert panels, workshops, thematic discussions, and networking meetings. This year, participants will also be able to take part in new formats that promote the building of lasting relationships and the exchange of experiences between leaders from different sectors.

Registration is open

Congress participants can take part in numerous panels, discussions, and networking meetings, including new interactive formats. Registration is free.

For those who want additional amenities, GOLD and PLATINUM packages are available, including a parking space at the congress center and an invitation to a banquet and gala with a guest.

Registration and detailed information about the packages: