SMEs represent most of all businesses in the EU. They are often referred to as the backbone of the European economy, providing a potential source for jobs and economic growth. They are often well suited for the Big Science market. Experience shows that SMEs exhibit excellent flexibility to respond and adapt to specific challenging technical requirements of Big Science organizations in advanced technology procurements.

Aligned with the global purpose of BSBF of strengthening collaborations between research organizations and industry, BSBF Trieste 2024 organizers, in collaboration with PERIIA Network, launched in September 2023 a specific Call for SME Track with a twofold objective:

• to make a case for how investing in the Big Science market is a means of growth for European SMEs, and can generate knowledge transferable to other market segments. To this end, BSBF2024 will invite SMEs who have been successful in the Big Science market to present their success stories as a way to convey the message to the Big Science ecosystem, national authorities, and the European Commission;
• to give SMEs with proprietary technology and/or capabilities which are deemed applicable for the Big Science market the opportunity to liaise with technical responsible from Big Science organizations to explore collaborations and business opportunities. These SMEs would benefit from a privileged position to maximize their participation in BSBF2024.