Portfolio will hold a half-day economic conference in Kecskemét on 13 October 2026 at the Four Points by Sheraton Kecskemét Hotel. The event, titled “Where next for Hungarian SMEs? – Competitiveness in 2026”, targets current challenges and opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises in regional cities.
The forum aims to provide an up-to-date economic and financial picture, present financing options and SME-specific grant opportunities, and outline energy-efficiency measures to help local decision-makers and business leaders preserve long-term profitability and stability.
Program and key topics
The event is structured into two thematic sections:
Section I – Economic overview and outlook for 2026
- This session examines the economic situation in autumn 2026 and expectations for 2027, with special attention to financing conditions and interest-rate developments.
- Speakers:
- Madár István, lead analyst, Portfolio Group: “Hungary’s path from autumn 2026 – A macroeconomic overview.”
- Illés István, partner and board member, Apelso Trust: “Wealth tax in Hungary: how and what to prepare for?”.
- A panel discussion, moderated by the head of risk management at Coface, will analyse potential growth and recovery paths for the Hungarian economy and domestic companies. Panel participants:
- Madár István, lead analyst, Portfolio Group
- Moiskó János, deputy CEO for economics, KÉSZ Holding Zrt.
- Tigelmann Gábor, regional head, SME business, Erste Bank Hungary
Section II – A survival kit for modern businesses
- This block focuses on practical solutions and modern technologies (including artificial intelligence), maximising use of EU funds, and current marketing trends.
- Speakers:
- Szőke Ramon, business development manager, Goodwill Consulting: “EU funding from 2026: From expectation to implementation.”
- Szeder Péter, digital strategy director, Initiative Media: “Customer acquisition and product sales on a difficult field – A successful Hungarian SME marketing formula for 2027.”
- Panels:
- The first panel explores whether artificial intelligence can address labour shortages and how the technology can be converted into measurable business benefits. Participants: Illés Kata (co-founder, AI architect, Indivizo), Fehérvári Krisztina (CEO, Poliext), Tóth-Pócs Roland (founder and head of 3D division, Kecskemétfilm), Pál Benedek (co-founder, Nexly).
- The second panel addresses supply-chain vulnerabilities, foreign-exchange exposures, and strategies to preserve SMEs’ long-term competitiveness. Participants: Beh Mariann (founder-owner, Bazsalikomos Kert és Pékség), Julis Zsanett (supply chain director, Kecskeméti Konzerv), Szűcs-Szabó Sándor (managing director, Rollsped).
Why the event matters
Regional cities such as Kecskemét have become key drivers of domestic economic growth by 2026, and strengthening the SME sector is essential for local development. The conference seeks to support adaptation to a changing market environment through practical advice, financing and grant information, and demonstrations of technological solutions.
Registration and practical information
Organisers note that up-to-date knowledge and reliable business contacts are especially valuable in an uncertain market environment. Registration details are available via Portfolio’s official channels.
Cover image: Portfolio
This article was prepared with assistance from an AI assistant; the final content was edited and verified by our journalist.
