Opening up public procurement to SMEs: where do we stand?

Public procurement represents a tremendous opportunity for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Belgium, offering them prospects for growth and diversification. However, access to these markets remains limited for many SMEs due to specific barriers. This article explores the main challenges SMEs face in public procurement and highlights incentives and solutions to improve their participation.

First obstacle: Administrative complexity

Public procurement procedures are often perceived as complex and time-consuming. SMEs, with limited resources, are faced with demanding administrative formalities and sometimes onerous bidding conditions​.

Second obstacle: The cost barrier

Invitations to tender require an investment of time and resources, whether in putting together the tender documents or in meeting the often strict selection criteria. This initial cost can hold back many SMEs, especially when there is no guarantee that they will win the contract​.

Third obstacle: The issue of visibility and competition

Public procurement markets are often dominated by larger companies with dedicated teams and well-established experience in this field. SMEs can therefore be sidelined or remain invisible in the face of this increased competition.

Incentives to open up public procurement to SMEs

To strengthen the inclusion of SMEs in public procurement, both national and European initiatives have been put in place.

• Simplification of procedures: Public authorities are gradually working to simplify tendering procedures, by reducing administrative burdens and encouraging the use of standardised forms. The aim is to make access easier and quicker for SMEs.
• Quotas and specific lots for SMEs: Some initiatives aim to reserve a proportion of calls for tender for SMEs or to divide contracts into smaller lots, thereby facilitating their access to projects that are less demanding in terms of capacity.
• Financial and technical support: Support programmes are available, such as training courses and practical guides to help SMEs navigate calls for tender. In Belgium, several organisations offer technical assistance and advice to facilitate access to public contracts.

Conclusion

Public procurement in Belgium is a major growth driver for SMEs, but access to it is still fraught with significant challenges. Thanks to ongoing reforms and the support of experts such as Aria Partner, it is now possible for SMEs to overcome these obstacles and access a wide range of opportunities. Through a better understanding of public procurement mechanisms and a structured access strategy, SMEs can not only strengthen their competitiveness, but also play an active part in the development of the Belgian economy.