HSM as a Best-practice example in the European REBTES project

On the 27th of November, CEPOR hosted a meeting of EU REBTES project partners in Zagreb, bringing together business transfer experts from six European countries. Each gathering traditionally includes a “company visit” to a business recognized as a strong example of successful ownership transfer and this year, HSM had the privilege of being chosen.

For us, this is both a great acknowledgment and a significant responsibility, as we understand how important succession and business transfer are for the future of small and medium-sized enterprises in Croatia.

Who is CEPOR?

CEPOR – SMEs and Entrepreneurship Policy Center is the first think-tank in Croatia, which deals with the problems of the SME sector. For years, they have conducted research, provided policy recommendations, and encouraged public discussion on improving the entrepreneurial environment in Croatia.

Their work is particularly valuable when it comes to topics that are still relatively new in our country,  such as business transfers in family-owned companies.

What is the REBTES project?

REBTES – Developing Regional SME Business Transfer Ecosystems – is a European project focused on building strong regional ecosystems that support business transfers, especially in small and micro enterprises.

Why is this important?

• European entrepreneurs, much like the general population, are rapidly aging
• the number of family successions is decreasing
• business owners increasingly need alternative exit strategies
• most transfers happen within the local community or region

This is why REBTES has a clear objective: to develop concrete solutions and policies that help sellers and buyers connect more easily, ensure sustainable transitions, and enable small businesses to continue thriving after a change in ownership.

The project brings together partners from Finland, Belgium, Croatia, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Ukraine, and their activities include:

• exchanging best practices
• analysing existing systems
• developing new solutions
• policy learning workshops

This is not just a “theoretical project” – the goal is to make a real difference for real businesses.

Why did CEPOR choose HSM?

As part of the meeting, the partners visited a company that represents a successful business transfer and we are truly honoured that CEPOR selected HSM.

Our Jelena Jelinić Cvirn and Jakov Urbanke, presented our story and the transition process from the first to the second generation. They explained how, through thoughtful planning, open communication, and continuous learning, we managed to preserve the values on which the company was built while ensuring continuity, growth, and modernization.

The session was moderated by our long-time collaborator and friend, Mirela Alpeza, who led a highly interactive and insightful discussion with 25 participants. The group explored key challenges, common dilemmas, and the many opportunities that a business transfer can bring to a company and its leadership.

Proud to share what we have once learned ourselves!

The topic of family business transfer is still evolving in Croatia, but an increasing number of companies are successfully navigating this process which is something we are happy to see.

After years spent searching for information, learning from others’ experiences, and preparing for our own transition, we are especially proud that today we can share our insights and support others going through a similar journey.

This visit was an opportunity to highlight the importance of openness, planning, and learning from one another and to contribute together to building a stronger business transfer ecosystem in Croatia and across Europe.