THE IMPORTANCE OF THE SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISE SECTOR OF THE VOIVODESHIPS OF EASTERN POLAND

Abstract. The aim of this paper is to analyze the development of the SME sector in Poland, with particular emphasis on regions belonging to the Eastern Poland. The period of analysis covers the years 2001–2011. Throughout this period we note arise in the number of active SMEs in all voivodships. However, the density ratio of SMEs in the eastern voivodships is very low compared to other regions. Benefi cial seem larger share of employment in SMEs in total employment in the eastern regions, similar trends exist in the case of revenue which is due to, however, low activity of large corporations in these provinces. Should be assessed positively increasing expenditures incurred for small and medium-sized enterprises located in eastern voivodships, which may result in an increase in the activity of SMEs in the future, which fi nally may contribute to the increase of competitiveness of the regions of Eastern Poland. Key words: SME sector, dynamics of enterprises ’ indicators changes, comparisons be