Small Firms, Politics, and Credit in the Netherlands: 1900-1980

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are a driving force for growth, innovation and job creation, nonetheless smaller companies fail more regularly and often have a hard time obtaining (bank) financing. Because of the economic importance of SMEs, governments are actively trying to support smaller businesses by removing obstacles to their survival and growth. In practice, this means adapting regulations and government policies to the needs of SMEs and improving their access to finance. These interventions do not take place always or everywhere, but depend heavily on the interaction between... Mehr ...