Are ERDFs Devoted to Boosting ICTs in SMEs Inefficient? A Three-Stage SBM Approach

We assessed the implementation of operational programs (OPs) aimed at boosting deployment information and communication technologies (ICTs) in small medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). performed a three-stage slack-based measure (SBM) data envelopment analysis (DEA) model combined with stochastic frontier (SFA), which considered contextual factors reported from European Union (EU) to appraise 51 OPs 16 countries. Overall, we discovered that by eliminating factors, almost 27% (14) attained efficient procedural results. The OP “Multi-regional Spain—ERDF” is widely perceived as benchmark, irrespective its remaining robustly for perturbations ranging 5% 10%. “Number Operations Supported” indicator requires attention, both or without removal factors. Our findings suggest more developed regions, greater proportion ICT professionals, are associated poor utilization allocation ERDF funds promote adoption SMEs. This could be attributed an inability SMEs handle complex bureaucratic processes submitting executing Regional Development Fund (ERDF) initiatives. Consequently, it vital provide additional assistance streamlines management formalities satisfies needs