Facebook Unveils Major Initiatives to Support Small Businesses Across Europe, Middle East, and Africa
Facebook is rolling out a range of initiatives to support small businesses and retailers across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The social media giant is providing personalized plans, training, and tools to help businesses adapt, recover, and thrive online.
Facebook has launched 'Facebook for Small Business' in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK. This program offers tailored guidance to help small businesses establish and grow their online presence.
In response to the pandemic, Facebook introduced the 'Accelerating News' initiative. Over 7,500 retailers have engaged with this program, which provides training and tools to help them adapt and recover.
In Italy, small fashion business Progetto Quid pivoted to making non-medical masks during lockdown. Using Facebook Ads, they sold an impressive 700,000 masks within just two months.
Facebook has also announced 'Boost with Facebook', a platform designed to support small businesses in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa with using Local Services Ads to go online.
In the U.S., retailers using both free listings and ads saw an average of twice as many views and 50 percent more visits, with small and medium-sized businesses experiencing the most significant increases.
From October 20, 2025, the Facebook Verified badge will replace existing badges such as Facebook Screened and License Verified.
Facebook is expanding its Local Services Ads to 10 European countries, helping local professionals reach and connect with customers directly. Additionally, the company is making product listings on the Shopping tab free for retailers across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, regardless of their advertising status.
Facebook's initiatives aim to empower small businesses and retailers by providing them with the tools and support they need to succeed online. These moves could significantly impact the way businesses operate and connect with customers in the digital age.
