European SME Day, celebrated on 12 May, highlights the vital role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the European Union's economy. Representing over 99% of all businesses in the EU, SMEs form the backbone of economic activity, driving innovation, employment, and sustainable development. Despite their critical role, many SMEs face challenges in financing initiatives, particularly in the area of energy efficiency. This webinar, "Smart Financing Solutions for Energy Efficiency in SMEs," aims to address these challenges by providing practical guidance, tools, and insights to empower SMEs in adopting sustainable practices and securing the financial resources needed for energy-efficient transformations.

Beginner Session: Understanding the Basics of Financing Energy Efficiency
This segment is tailored for SMEs and entrepreneurs new to energy efficiency financing. It covers the fundamentals, such as the benefits of energy efficiency, an introduction to common financing options (loans, grants, and subsidies), and a simple guide to assessing the feasibility of energy efficiency projects. Participants will also learn how to identify relevant funding programs and take the first steps in the financing process.