Federal Economic Senate

The Federal Economic Senate (Bundeswirtschaftssenat – BWS) is the highest body in the BVMW SME Association. It forms a community of values of high-calibre representatives from politics, business, culture and the media. Only outstanding personalities are appointed to this body – thought leaders at national, European and international levels.

As decision-makers and role models, the approximately 350 members represent the pinnacle of German SMEs. These entrepreneurial personalities contribute their outstanding life's work, their expertise and their commitment. In addition, they enjoy the highest political and social standing far beyond the borders of Germany.

Their companies represent over 1.2 million jobs and over 120 billion euros in annual sales. The Federal Economic Senate is an important pillar of our democracy. Creative impulses for business, politics and society come from this circle of entrepreneurs. Fairness and partnership in business life as well as the social competence of entrepreneurs and executives characterize the work of the Federal Economic Senate.

With their personal honorary commitment, the senators help to implement the interests of small and medium-sized businesses in dialogue with decision-makers in politics, business, culture and the media. The goals and objectives of the Federal Economic Senate include:

• Improving the framework conditions for small and medium-sized enterprises
• Promoting ethics, corporate social responsibility, corporate governance and compliance in business, politics and society
• Promoting a positive public image of entrepreneurs and business leaders
• Media contact for issues relevant to small and medium-sized businesses
• Participation in legislative initiatives
• Close cooperation with political decision-makers
• Networking for small and medium-sized enterprises
• Honours for services to the well-being of small and medium-sized enterprises
• International network of partnerships and international organizations