Join us for „Small Businesses, Big Opportunities: Creating Pathways for Growth” on March 20, 2025, at the Aula Magna of the Bucharest University of Economic Studies (ASE).
This event brings together leaders, innovators, and policymakers to discuss how micro and small enterprises (MSEs) can drive local and European economic growth.
Expect inspiring keynotes, thought-provoking panels, and great networking opportunities!
The event has a closed-door exclusive workshop starting 11:30 and wrapping up at 17:00 targeting start-ups and individuals interested in starting a business or becoming a business consultant.
Apply by Tuesday, 18 March, by sending an email to roxana.voicu@rei.ase.ro.
Date: March 20, 2025
Time: 9:00 – 11:00AM
Location: Aula Magna, ASE
Don’t miss this chance to engage with experts and explore new opportunities!
Small Businesses, Big Opportunities: Creating Pathways for Growth
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8:30 AM – Entrance and Registration
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9:00 AM – Opening by the Host
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Dorel Paraschiv, Vice Rector at The Bucharest University of Economic Studies
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9:05 AM – Welcome Remarks & Call to Action
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Cosmin Vladimirescu, General Manager, Romania & Croatia, Mastercard
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Bartosz Ciolkowski, General Manager, South East Europe at Mastercard
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9:15 AM – Opening Remarks – Romanian MSEs: Empowering Local Growth for a Stronger European Presence
Moderator: Dorel Paraschiv, Vice Rector at The Bucharest University of Economic Studies
- Victor Negrescu, Vice President of the European Parliament
- Andi Cristea, Member of the European Parliament
- Bogdan Ivan, Minister of Economy, Digitalization, Entrepreneurship and Tourism (tbc)
- 9:35 AM – Fire-Side Chat: How I Transformed a Small Business into a Large One
- Catalin Rus, COO and Co-founder of Prime Dash
- Cosmin Vladimirescu, General Manager, Romania & Croatia, Mastercard
- 9:50 AM – Flash Panel: Breaking Barriers: Challenges Holding MSEs Back and Key Trends for Growth
Exploring the financing needs of MSEs in the EU and Romania, the structural barriers they face, and the key market trends shaping their opportunities for scaling and innovation.
Moderator: Dorel Paraschiv, Vice Rector at The Bucharest University of Economic Studies
- Octavian Oprea, Member of the Romanian Parliament
- Daniela Marin, Principal Manager, SME Finance & Development, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)
- Adelina Dabu, Head of Public Affairs at Employers Confederation (Concordia)
- Cristina Sindile, CEO at BT Mic (IFN part of Banca Transilvania)
- 10:30 AM – Flash Panel: Bridging Innovation and Growth: Unlocking the Digital Potential of Romanian Enterprises
Discussing the key enablers of digital growth, including funding, partnerships, and technological advancements
Moderator: Oana Craioveanu, Co-founder of Impact Hub Bucharest
- Daniel Szekely, Executive Director IMM & Corporate at Banca Transilvania
- David Achim, Executive Director at Make IT in Oradea
- Andrei Danila, CEO at Code 932
- Ioana Samoil, Romania Country Lead at NESsT Romania