This focus paper explores the growing cybersecurity challenges facing Europe’s Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs), which play a vital role in economic growth but are increasingly vulnerable due to rapid digitalisation and limited resources. While digital transformation has helped MSEs remain competitive (particularly during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic) it has also exposed them to a broad spectrum of cyber threats, including ransomware, phishing, malware, DDoS attacks, and supply chain breaches. These threats are intensified by a lack of cybersecurity expertise, dependence on costly or ill-suited technology solutions, and constrained budgets, all of which can result in significant operational and financial consequences.

The paper underscores the urgent need for comprehensive policy measures and targeted support from EU authorities and National Coordination Centres (NCCs). It recommends expanding access to practical training, increasing funding, and developing user-friendly cybersecurity tools to foster a strong cybersecurity culture and safeguard both individual businesses and the broader digital ecosystem.

In 2024, the European Microfinance Network (EMN) expanded its membership across Europe, strengthened its partnerships with relevant stakeholders, and continued to promote financial and social inclusion. By representing the microfinance and social economy in Brussels, EMN reasserted its position as the leading voice of the sector in Europe.

This report provides an overview of the main activities carried out by the EMN team and its partners during the previous year. It outlines EMN’s key objectives, which include ensuring fairer and inclusive finance for all, supporting underserved groups, and developing sustainable solutions for the microfinance sector.

Download our Annual Report for 2024

This 13th edition of the Survey on Microfinance in Europe, produced by the European Microfinance Network (EMN) and the Microfinance Centre (MFC), draws on data from 198 microcredit providers operating across 30 European countries in 2024.

While the primary focus is on EU-27 countries, the survey also includes data from candidate and potential candidate countries, offering a comprehensive picture of the sector’s European footprint. This edition places a particular emphasis on social outreach to vulnerable groups and microbusinesses.