Dylematy rozwoju sektora małych i średnich przedsiębiorstw na przykładzie województwa opolskiego w latach 1996-2000

The article is focussed on development of the sector of small and medium-sized enterprises in the Opole Region over the years 1996-2000. The author discusses the role and importance of a policy pursued by the local authority towards small and medium-sized enterprises: creation of conditions for development of entrepreneurship, improved SME competitiveness, creation of favourable conditions for launching export-oriented activity. There are also presented entrepreneurship support instruments in local communities with a special emphasis laid on public assistance.