The Executive Director of the Bulgarian Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion Agency (BSMEPA), Boyko Takov, PhD. inaugurated the National Conference „Responsible Business Conduct – The Entrepreneur’s Path,“ which gathered ministers, diplomats, and over 150 participants. This unique event highlighted the latest trends in corporate progress, the role of the state and business support, as well as ethical practices for sustainable development.

„The theme of today’s conference is of utmost importance for the business environment in Bulgaria. Responsible business conduct is a key element of strategic processes for entrepreneurs and those just entering the country’s economic landscape. Every business leader who understands and follows the guidelines of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) inevitably contributes to building a sustainable business environment,“ said Boyko Takov, who also heads Bulgaria’s National Contact Point for Responsible Business Conduct.

The first panel of the National Conference featured the participation of Borislav Gutsanov, Minister of Labor and Social Policy; Krasimir Yakimov, Deputy Minister of Innovation and Growth; Viktor Atanasov, Deputy Minister of Environment and Water; Yordanka Chobanova, Head of the European Commission Representation in Bulgaria and Zornitsa Rusinova, Chair of the Economic and Social Council of the Republic of Bulgaria.

„All institutions play a crucial role in responsible business conduct and are directly involved in the process. Our goal is to enhance this process so that companies can adopt best practices and become industry leaders,“ added Mr. Takov.

Bulgaria is currently in the process of joining the OECD. The National Contact Point was established in line with the example set by the other 50 countries that are part of the organization.

„I firmly believe that very soon, we will become a full-fledged member and will be the 51st country to join the OECD. The main function of the National Contact Points is to promote and encourage responsible business conduct among multinational corporations, as well as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs),“ Dr. Takov further stated.

The event was attended by representatives of the embassies of the United States, Italy, Spain, Romania, Turkey, Greece, North Macedonia, and the Republic of Korea.

During the National Conference, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Milena Angelova, Secretary-General of the Bulgarian Industrial Capital Association (BICA), presented a study on the readiness of SMEs for the transition to sustainability.

Participants in the second panel introduced the audience to strategies for overcoming entrepreneurial challenges through knowledge, experience, and adaptability, emphasizing responsible business development. Mentorship was a key topic in the discussion, with participants highlighting that fostering creative thinking through business ideas is the path to entrepreneurial progress.

The third panel focused on „Responsible Business Conduct Unlocks Financial Opportunities.“ Participants informed businesses about available funding options and the financial instruments accessible to SMEs for growth. As the driving force of the economy, SMEs play a key role in shaping sustainability through their business practices.