INTEGRATION POTENTIAL OF SMES IN THE EASTERN PARTNERSHIP COUNTRIES WITHIN THE EU GREEN DEAL IMPLEMENTATION
Keywords:
business development services, climate change, decarbonization, EaP, Eastern Partnership, ecologization, energy transition, European integration, European Union, global challenges, Green Deal, green economy, green financing, green transition, international enterprises, resilience, SMEs, sustainable development.Abstract
The article examines the integration potential of small and medium-sized enterprises in the Eastern Partnership countries in the context of the European Green Deal. Using a mixed-method approach and drawing on EU4Business data, the study identifies spatial differences in the structure and effectiveness of SME support across three key areas: access to finance, competence development, and the institutional environment. The analysis highlights country-specific patterns in the use of SME development instruments that shape the green transition in Ukraine, Georgia, Moldova, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. Based on these findings, the paper proposes a conceptual model for strengthening SME integration potential, built around five interconnected components: integration readiness and environmental compliance; financial accessibility; competence and innovation development; the institutional integration framework; and monitoring and evaluation. The study shows that this model aligns with the core directions of EU SME support programs. It outlines a systemic approach to enhancing business resilience in the Eastern Partnership region, facilitating gradual convergence with the EU internal market and adaptation to the requirements of the green transition.
JEL: F15, Q56, L26, O44.
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Received: September 12, 2025.
Reviewed: October 10, 2025.
Accepted: November 10, 2025.
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