Entrepreneurship as a Driver of the Economy: Challenges and Opportunities for SMEs

The role of small and medium-sized enterprises in the development of the national economy, as well as public policies and institutional mechanisms shaping the entrepreneurial environment in the Republic of Croatia, were the focus of a guest lecture held on 11 March at EFFECTUS University of Applied Sciences. The lecture was delivered to students by Marija Vukelić, Director of the Directorate for Entrepreneurship and Crafts at the Ministry of Economy.

During her presentation, the key role of small and medium-sized enterprises in economic growth, employment, and strengthening the competitiveness of the national economy was highlighted. Particular emphasis was placed on the high level of dependence of the Croatian economy on small businesses and on the importance of creating a stable and supportive entrepreneurial environment.

Speaking about public policy instruments, Marija Vukelić presented the ways in which the state shapes the entrepreneurial environment, highlighting the important role of financial support measures as well as non-financial instruments such as education, institutional support, and the European regulatory framework. Students were also introduced to the regulatory environment in which entrepreneurs operate, as well as to the administrative challenges they encounter in everyday business activities.

The lecture also presented current trends in the development of the crafts sector, including the promotion of vocational education and the strengthening of entrepreneurial capacities. The importance of cooperation between higher education institutions and public institutions in developing the competencies required for the modern labour market was particularly emphasized.

Participants also had the opportunity to learn about the future directions of entrepreneurship development in Croatia in the context of digitalisation, the green transition, and European policies, as well as the potential for the internationalisation of domestic companies and the development challenges they face in the global market.

The lecture provided students with a broader insight into the economic and institutional context of entrepreneurship and contributed to a better understanding of the role of legislation and public policies in shaping a supportive business environment. Through concrete examples of programmes supporting entrepreneurs, Marija Vukelić further encouraged students to engage more actively with the institutional system of entrepreneurial support.

The guest lecture took place in a highly interactive atmosphere, with numerous questions and discussions from students, further enhancing the quality and practical value of this professional event.