BELGRADE – On December 5, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID)’s Cooperation for Growth Project (CGP) held an event at the Crowne Plaza hotel dedicated to helping Serbian companies and entrepreneurs expand their businesses.  More than 250 representatives from Serbia’s leading small and medium enterprises (SMEs) attended the SME is MVP Forum. USAID’s and CGP’s aim was to help SMEs identify ways to compete more effectively in the 21^st century marketplace and develop strategies to overcome obstacles that stand in the way of their further growth.

This national business forum featured an expo area called the “Growth Zone.“ That consisted of exhibits by manned by more than 25 entrepreneurs and companies. At their stands, they highlighted innovative business solutions in the areas of e-commerce, other aspects of the digital economy, business management, access to finances, tax regulations and banking. Visitors had the chance to learn from fellow entrepreneurs about approaches that could help them improve their own businesses.

“All of you in business here have decided to invest in Serbia, keep your business in Serbia, and grow in Serbia despite many challenges and risks.... The U.S. Government remains a partner to help you and all citizens of Serbia capitalize on the country’s talented and ambitious people to grow the economy. We will continue to work closely with the government and business community to improve the business environment and enable financial products that businesses need for growth,” said Anthony Godfrey, U.S. Ambassador to Serbia.  “

Joseph Lowther, Chief of Party of USAID’s Cooperation for Growth Project added, “In all countries but especially in developing ones like Serbia, SMEs are the driving force for economic growth. To help support SME growth, we decided to bring them together to exchange their experiences, discuss keys to success and gain the support they need to accelerate their growth.”