SEECEL has developed and published a Training Needs Analysis (TNA) tool to support the up skilling of entrepreneurs in the region as a resource to increase the competitiveness and sustainability of regional economies. As identified by the Small Business Act for Europe (SBA), Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of integrated, inclusive, smart and sustainable growth and economic development. In SEECEL member states, the vast majority of established enterprises are SMEs, and strengthening SMEs will result in more job opportunities and greater prosperity. The development of the SME sector has consistently been highlighted in national SME strategies, programmes and action plans as one of the economic priorities of South East European countries.

To achieve this economic priority, the focus has been placed on fostering the competitiveness of SMEs by improving the competences of SME’s human capital. The education and training system, which plays a crucial role in strengthening the competences of SME’s human capital, should remain flexible and respond accurately to the demands of the labour market. The discrepancy between the expressed needs for training and the training provision offered in the market and the lack of data on SME’s training needs should be addressed through systematic Training Needs Analysis (TNA).

A number of SEECEL member states are taking diverse initiatives to build a comprehensive TNA system. This shift to evidence-based policy making is important if SEECEL member states are to ensure that the significant investment in training is cost effective. This is why a regional TNA has been identified by national stakeholders as one of the key development priorities of SEECEL’s work. Not only does a regional TNA give concrete results for all SEECEL member states but it also provides support to existing national TNA developments in terms of experience, instruments, tools and networks. The SEECEL developed instrument and associated methodology as well as the first implementation of an SEE-wide TNA has planted the seed for a future Training Needs Analysis System (TNAS), a cyclic process that will ensure the continued relevance and efficiency of training for micro, small and medium enterprises.