In 2026, the European Commission will present an updated recommendation to Member States on Business Transfer, replacing the 1994 framework. As millions of baby boomers retire, Europe is faced with an unprecedented wave of small-business ownership transitions in the coming years. Strengthening Europe’s capacity to facilitate this succession process is essential to protect jobs, sustain territorial attractiveness, and reinforce competitiveness.
The event will dive deep into how chambers of commerce and industry can play a pivotal role in identifying potential sellers, raising early awareness, and guiding entrepreneurs towards essential support services. By acting as trusted local one-stop shops and facilitators of business ecosystems, chambers are uniquely positioned to help smooth the succession process and ensure the continuity of Europe’s small businesses.
The event is hosted by the European Committee of the Regions and will feature a high-level panel discussion with representatives from key EU institutions, alongside insightful entrepreneur testimonies. These real-world experiences will highlight the challenges and opportunities involved in business succession, emphasizing the critical role of post-takeover mentoring to stabilize new ownership and reduce failure risks in the early years of transition.
Where?
European Committee of the Regions (CoR)
Conference room VMA 21
2nd floor of VMA Building
Rue Van Maerlant 2, B-1040, Brussels