SMEs – the backbone
of the European economy
Resources, tools and opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises.
Context
SMEs and standardisationMicro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) account for more than 99% of European businesses, provide two thirds of private sector jobs and contribute more than half of the total value added by businesses in the EU.
They are therefore the backbone of Europe’s economy. Standardisation strengthens the key role of SMEs, but small businesses are often unaware of the added value of standards.
In recent years, the European standardisation organisations CEN and CENELEC have addressed this issue and stepped up their efforts to support SMEs and their participation in standardisation.
Getting involved in standardisation
2 questionsWhy get involved?
- Influence technical requirements in the market;
- Position yourself as a leader in your sector;
- Save on compliance costs;
- Gain faster access to information and innovation;
- Help shape sustainable and digital practices.
SME support ecosystem
3 resourcesEverything you need to implement standards correctly.
7 essential standards
The collection covers quality, risk management, business continuity, social responsibility, information security and occupational health and safety.
View the collectionInfo.Standard 5.0
Your digital partner for standardisation: full catalogue access, previews, notifications, advanced search filters and personalised recommendations.
Discover Info.StandardASRO campaign #meetingStandards 2025
Take part in standardisation
Want to influence the standards that affect your work? Join one of ASRO’s technical committees (TCs) and help develop standards in your field.
Influence
Make your voice heard and represent your company’s interests in standardisation.
Anticipation
Find out early about changes in your field.
Collaboration
Work with experts and other industry professionals.
Networking
Become part of a national network of specialists.
How to join: three simple steps
- 03
Get involved
Take an active part in meetings and contribute your expertise.
If you have questions, write to us or call 021 316 32 96 – we will guide you through the application process!
EmailResources and policies
7 documents and portalsASRO policy for SMEs
Discover how we support development, innovation and competitiveness through standardisation.
Read the policy (PDF, in Romanian)Guide 17
Find out how standards can be drafted to meet the needs of SMEs.
Read Guide 17 (PDF, in Romanian)ASRO 2025 report
See the figures, achievements and impact of standardisation over the past year.
Read the report (PDF)
Media resources
Videos, brochures and infographics on the benefits of standards.
Open the ISO brochure (PDF)