SME between reality and ambition (A field study on a group of small and medium enterprises in the holy province of Karbala)

Abstract

The research deals with the analysis of the problems and challenges faced by small and medium enterprises in Iraq. The research seeks to consider the importance of small and medium enterprises, and highlight the problems faced by small and medium-sized enterprises in obtaining the funding required to improve the status of these projects.The investigation has helped identify the main challenges for SME financing and what solutions should be taken to overcome these obstacles. It has been found that SMEs are one of the most important outlets in achieving economic development in all countries of the world, accounting for the highest proportion of all types of economic enterprises of all sizes. A field survey was conducted to collect data from managers and owners of 50 small and medium projects. The projects were classified according to the working capital. The project was considered small if the capital was between 10-25 million dinars. The average project, His money between (25-50) million dinars. The results showed that the problems facing the growth of small and medium enterprises in Iraq by respondents, which can be summarized as follows1. Lack of legal frameworks for SMEs.2. No tax or financing incentives to encourage SMEs.A number of recommendations have been developed, including:1. Work on legislation of laws and regulations that will raise the level of small and medium enterprises, and thus the recovery of the local economy.2. Providing financing facilities that help the development and expansion of small and medium enterprises, which will help in the rotation and recovery of the economy.