Access for start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises and subcontracting

François Lichère and Cédric Bernard

Chapter 14 in Reforming EU Public Procurement, 2026, pp 203-216 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: This chapter addresses the persistent difficulties faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups in accessing public procurement within the European Union, despite the reforms introduced by Directive 2014/24/EU. The authors highlight that measures such as contract lotting, administrative simplification through the European Single Procurement Document and encouragement of subcontracting have not significantly improved SME participation. The 2023 Special Report by the European Court of Auditors confirms minimal progress, with a few exceptions. The chapter proposes three avenues for improvement: ensuring real equality among bidders (e.g., mandatory lotting, reserved execution shares), better regulation of subcontracting (e.g., direct payments) and recognising start-ups’ specific characteristics (e.g., internal experience validation, innovation-friendly procedures). These suggestions aim to bridge the gap between the EU's pro-SME rhetoric and actual procurement practices. A bold revision of the directive would better support innovation, fair competition and the inclusive economic growth envisioned by EU policies.

Keywords: Access; Equality; Start-up; SME; Subcontracting (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035368266
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