PROGRAMS OF THE EUROPEAN UNION FOR SUPPORT AND STIMULATION OF SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED BUSINESSES IN UKRAINE

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to analyze the current programs of the European Union for the support and stimulation of small and medium-sized businesses of Ukraine. Methodology of research. The purpose of the article was achieved through the use of the following methods: analysis and synthesis of processed information, logical generalization and scientific abstraction. Findings. Small and medium-sized enterprises are the most dynamic and mobile sector of the economy and should play a key role in ensuring sustainable economic growth and raising the standard of living in the country. However, the state of war, the outflow of labor resources from Ukraine, the difficult economic situation in the country directly affect the functioning of SMEs. This requires constant efforts on the part of both the state and business entities. The European Union offers Ukrainian small and medium-sized enterprises significant support. In particular, the characteristics of the programs of the European Union showed that for Ukrainian small and medium-sized businesses there are currently available programs that can be classified in three areas: 1) facilitating small and medium-sized businesses access to the EU markets; 2) improvement of competitiveness conditions; 3) formation of business culture. The European integration of Ukraine is the choice of a strategic development vector. For Ukrainian business entities, European integration is, first of all, standards that determine the directions of their further modernization: creating competitive products and services, creating a favorable investment climate, achieving a high level of corporate security and ensuring equal competition, taking into account the interests of all interested parties. The EU also offers significant opportunities for Ukrainian SMEs in terms of grant support, profitable lending, access to training programs, new technologies, etc. Practical value. The obtained results will allow to deepen knowledge about EU programs for support and stimulation small and medium-sized enterprises and the principles of working with them.