European Union policies have contributed to meaningful progress in reducing economic and social balances between major regions across the continent. However, within many countries, regional disparities continue to present a significant challenge. National capital regions are accelerating as technology and growth hubs, and their “magnetic” tendency to concentrate entrepreneurs, workers, and wealth threatens opportunities in other areas, which can depress overall economic potential.

Our latest report reinforces how eBay is fostering vibrant small business communities and growth in many remote and/or economically-challenged regions across Europe. By analyzing various economic indicators, the report paints a detailed picture of eBay's role as a crucial partner to small businesses, leveling the playing-field and helping them thrive and succeed where traditional models often struggle. Our findings challenge the assumption that Europe’s national capital regions and tech startup hotspots will dominate every measure of entrepreneurship and mastery of digital tools. For example:

• National capital regions average roughly 2,000 people per square kilometer, while the regions leading in eBay small business activity average just one-third that population, including six top eBay regions with under 100 people per square kilometer.
• Thirteen eBay small business regional leaders have a GDP per capita below their national average. National capital regions, by comparison, top their country’s GDP per capita ranking the vast majority of times.
• Four top eBay small business regions are rated as “least prepared” for the digital transition, defying expectations of “digital readiness”.

The report also highlights testimonials from small business owners who have experienced firsthand the transformative impact of eBay. Their stories underscore the platform's role in connecting them with customers worldwide, boosting sales, and enhancing resilience against local economic downturns. Michał Szpin, owner of GlobalParts, located in Poland remarked, “We choose to sell on eBay because it’s a fantastic platform for quickly scaling our business across various countries.”

By empowering small businesses to transcend traditional geographic limitations, eBay is helping to foster inclusive economic growth and support entrepreneurs in areas that need it most.  Our research offers valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders interested in small business development and economic revitalization.

We invite you to explore our new report here.