The Chamber of Commerce in Katowice (RIG in Katowice) not only supports the development of entrepreneurship in Poland, but also actively represents the interests of domestic companies on the international stage. As a member of the European Entrepreneurs CEA-PME, RIG participates in key initiatives that have a real impact on the economic policy of the European Union. On May 22–23, 2025, representatives of the Chamber will take part in the prestigious Creative Days meeting in Vienna to help shape the direction of the European business organization for the coming years.
A joint mission for SMEs
European Entrepreneurs CEA-PME is the largest European confederation of small and medium-sized enterprises associations. It was founded in 1992 and is based in Brussels. It brings together over 2.4 million companies from 35 European countries, represented by 30 national and sectoral associations. The voice of this organization is important in the EU economic dialogue, especially in the context of building a strong real economy based on SMEs.
As a member of European Entrepreneurs CEA-PME, RIG Katowice actively participates in lobbying for the simplification of regulations, increased access to financing, and support for production in Europe. The organization supports the proposals contained in the key document: “A European Real Economy for a Realistic Industry Policy,” which points out, among other things:
- the need for stronger SME participation in EU industrial policy-making,
- the need for a realistic approach to the Green Deal, taking into account the limitations and potential of SMEs,
- simplifying access to European funds,
- protecting the European market from unfair competition,
- supporting digitization, automation, and talent acquisition by SMEs.
EU-African SME Summit 2025 – a new bridge between continents
RIG in Katowice is not limited to activities in Europe. It is already actively supporting the development of economic relations between the EU and Africa. On June 19–21, 2025, Johannesburg (South Africa) will host the EU-African SME Summit 2025, co-organized by European Entrepreneurs CEA-PME. RIG invites Polish entrepreneurs to participate in this unique event, which opens the door to the dynamically developing African markets.
The conference will be attended by over 300 representatives of SMEs, industry leaders, and decision-makers from both continents, one of whom will be the Arche Group, a member company of RIG.
The event program includes:
Day 1 – An expert conference on the role of the AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Agreement) and the EU’s “Global Gateway” strategy,
Day 2 – Market of opportunities, i.e. pitching sessions, B2B meetings, industry workshops, and the Express MoU service – instant conclusion of cooperation agreements,
Day 3 – Discover Africa – study visits to local companies presenting innovative solutions and cooperation potential.
The summit in Johannesburg is not just a conference – it is a real platform for establishing contacts, joint projects and entering new markets.
The future belongs to cooperation
Thanks to its involvement in CEA-PME initiatives, RIG in Katowice is becoming a key link in building a European economic policy focused on the needs of the SME sector. Its presence at Creative Days in Vienna and participation in the EU-African SME Summit 2025 show that RIG is not only responding to changes, but actively contributing to them.
Polish entrepreneurs who want to grow internationally and influence EU economic policy can count on the support and commitment of RIG Katowice – a true ambassador for SME interests.
For more information, please contact:
Oliwia Chmiel – International Relations Specialist
e-mail: ochmiel@rig.katowice.pl,
tel. +48 (32) 781 48 64
Aleksandra Monsiol – Szatkowska – Director for International Relations
e-mail: aszatkowska@rig.katowice.pl,
tel. kom: +48 697 16 50 26.