One of the factors adversely affecting productivity and growth in Turkey "in energy costs and energy inefficiency" as seen and therefore in 2023 until the energy intensity (energy consumed national income per capita) aims to reduce by 20%. Situated high on the energy consumption Tekirdağ, Kırklareli and Edirne Thrace region comprising the provinces (TR21) of 4.6% of energy consumption in Turkey is taking place. However, data on process efficiency reveal that SMEs operating in the manufacturing sector in the TR21 region operate with a process efficiency below the national average.

The "Efficient SMEs of Trakya Project", designed by the Trakya Development Agency to improve the process and energy efficiency of the SMEs in the region and to encourage productivity-oriented production in the manufacturing industry, aims to contribute to the socio-economic development of the region.

The project prioritizes raising the awareness level of SMEs as they do not have sufficient information on process and energy efficiency issues. Within the scope of the project, 300 information visits are planned in order to create an effective management and correct efficiency understanding and to determine the needs of SMEs.

With training and consultancy in line with the identified needs, SMEs are equipped with new skills to improve their processes. Check-up reports, which will be prepared specifically for 130 SMEs, include not only problems pertaining to the current situation, but also suggestions for solutions. According to the check-up results, it is aimed to provide consultancy training to 70 SMEs and capacity building training to 120 SMEs in order to increase efficiency. Decrease in input costs of 50 SMEs as a result of the supports; At least 2 SMEs are expected to implement environmentally friendly solutions for efficiency.

Trakya's Efficient SMEs Project, which aims positive effects on process and energy efficiency, will contribute to the conscious growth of SMEs, to increase their competitiveness in national and international markets and to the development of the manufacturing sector in Thrace.