At the SME Assembly 2025 in Copenhagen, Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Friederike Welter gave the renowned Schumpeter Lecture and argued for a broader view of entrepreneurship. She emphasized the importance of "Everyday Entrepreneurship" and showed in the SME Competitiveness Panel how Europe's companies can be strengthened by less bureaucracy despite current challenges.

Researchers from the University of Siegen presented current research findings on entrepreneurship and small businesses at the international RENT conference in Enschede. The focus was on digital technologies, the political influence of SMEs and female entrepreneurship in China, and a Best Paper Award went to a joint project involving researchers from Siegen.

How does entrepreneurship research need to evolve in order to better understand social change? In a recent article in Academy of Management Perspectives, David A. Kirsch, Daniel Wadhwani and Friederike Welter argue for more creativity, multidisciplinary perspectives and the breaking up of outdated research structures.

At the SME Advisory Board NRW, Friederike Welter emphasized the central role of small and medium-sized enterprises for the state's economy. In her keynote speech, she presented current research findings on the challenges facing SMEs, the use of artificial intelligence to combat the shortage of skilled workers and the impact of US tariffs.

Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Katherina Reiche has reappointed Friederike Welter to the SME Advisory Board. The panel of experts advises the federal government on current challenges and future issues facing SMEs, from innovative strength to competitiveness.