Mikroettevõtted

Mikroettevõtted, often translated as micro-enterprises, are the smallest form of business entities recognized in many legal systems. Typically, they are defined by strict criteria related to employee numbers, annual turnover, and balance sheet total. For instance, in the European Union, a micro-enterprise is generally classified as having fewer than 10 employees and an annual turnover or annual balance sheet total not exceeding €2 million. These thresholds are designed to differentiate them from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The establishment of micro-enterprises is often encouraged as a means to foster entrepreneurship, create local employment, and stimulate economic activity, particularly in regions or sectors where larger businesses may be less prevalent. They can operate in virtually any industry, from retail and services to crafts and niche manufacturing. Their small size often allows for greater flexibility and adaptability to market changes.

However, micro-enterprises also face unique challenges. They may have limited access to finance, struggle with regulatory compliance due to a lack of dedicated resources, and find it difficult to compete with larger, more established companies. Despite these hurdles, micro-enterprises play a vital role in the economic landscape, contributing to innovation and providing essential goods and services. Support mechanisms and simplified regulations are often put in place by governments to assist their growth and sustainability.