Representatives of small and medium-sized enterprises as well as PSB, III. At the Russian Financial Literacy Forum “Prosto Capital” they discussed support measures as part of an online training path for SMEs.
The speakers explored the most pressing challenges facing SME growth in today’s climate in Russia and how those challenges affect the broader economy. They emphasized that the long-term health of the country hinges on the vitality of private entrepreneurship, and they outlined practical steps to nurture that vitality through policies, programs, and hands-on assistance that streamline starting and scaling a business. The discussion highlighted that a robust SME sector serves as a bridge between innovation and jobs, and that targeted support can help entrepreneurs navigate the uncertainties of a shifting market landscape. [Citation: Russian Financial Literacy Forum, Prosto Capital]
Comprehensive assistance for startups is being expanded, including government programs designed to provide preferential lending, grants, and advisory services. PSB has positioned itself as a key participant in a wide array of business-support initiatives, working with public authorities, regional development bodies, and private partners to ensure entrepreneurs can access capital, mentorship, and reliable resources at every stage of their journey. The forum speakers stressed the importance of a coordinated ecosystem where banks, support agencies, and the market share a common goal: enabling sustainable growth, reducing early-stage risk, and promoting responsible financing practices that protect both lenders and borrowers. [Citation: Prosto Capital Forum]
Beyond funding, PSB is helping its clients expand their reach on marketplaces and digital trading platforms. Bank data indicate that a large majority of sellers report higher sales after bringing inventories to online marketplaces, while for many a marketplace serves as the primary or even sole sales channel. This reflects a broader shift toward omnichannel strategies where diverse digital channels complement traditional sales efforts, which in turn requires solid payment solutions, reliable transaction processing, and efficient logistics. The bank’s insights underscore the value of choosing the right platforms, optimizing product listings, and leveraging analytics to identify growth opportunities across markets. [Citation: PSB Market Insights]
During the forum, representatives also outlined the bank’s offerings for business payments, including streamlined payment rails, scalable invoicing, and secure settlement options. Innovations in digital services, junto with supportive tax policy developments in Russia, were presented as enablers for SMEs to modernize operations, improve cash flow, and reduce administrative overhead. The discussion touched on how digitalization can simplify compliance, automate routine tasks, and free time for strategic planning, innovation, and customer engagement. The participants noted that tailoring these solutions to the realities of small and medium-sized firms—such as seasonal demand, cross-border activities, and varied regulatory environments—can yield tangible efficiency gains. [Citation: Prosto Capital Forum]
As the session concluded, the Small Business Course was introduced as an outreach initiative aimed at retired military personnel and their families. The program is designed to translate entrepreneurial interest into actionable outcomes by providing training, mentorship, and access to starter resources that support a smooth transition into civilian business life. The course seeks to foster enterprise creation and resilience among veterans, recognizing their leadership experience and project-management skills as valuable assets in building sustainable ventures. [Citation: Forum Outreach Programs]