Empowering Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) through Innovation and Sustainable Industrial Development
10:00 -11:15 (New York time) 6 July 2026, Conference 12, United Nations Headquarters
Background
Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), representing over 90 per cent of businesses globally and accounting for a significant share of employment, remain central to employment, inclusive growth, decent work and sustainable industrial development. As is highlighted in global policy discussions, MSMEs are uniquely positioned to drive economic resilience and innovation, while they continue to face barriers, including limited access to affordable finance, innovative technology, connectivity, market opportunities, and digital infrastructure, along with confronting disaster and climate risks.
In today’s rapidly evolving global landscape, innovation and technology, particularly digital tools, artificial intelligence and green technologies, offer unprecedented opportunities for MSMEs to enhance productivity, strengthen resilience, and expand access to affordable finance and market. Nonetheless, without targeted support, many MSMEs, especially in developing countries, risk being left behind in the digital and technological transformations or being particularly vulnerable to the fallout from critical digital failures in a hyperconnected world.
MSMEs also have a key role to play in advancing SDG 9 on industry, infrastructure and innovation, which is under in-depth review at the 2026 High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development to be convened under the auspices of the United Nations Economic and Social Council. MSMEs play critical roles in translating innovation into solutions, strengthening local value chains, and expanding inclusive participation in digital economies. Empowering MSMEs through innovation and sustainable industrial development is essential for accelerating progress towards SDG 9 and the broader 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
In its Resolution A/RES/71/279, the United Nations General Assembly designated 27 June as “Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day” to underline the tremendous contributions of MSMEs to sustainable development. Against this backdrop, and in recognition of the 2026 HLPF review of SDG 9 and parallel Sustainable Development Goals, this event will focus on how innovation and sustainable industrial development can empower MSMEs to navigate multiple challenges and accelerate progress towards the SDGs.
Objectives
- Highlight the critical role of MSMEs as drivers of inclusive growth, innovation and sustainable industrial development in a world of multiple challenges;
- Facilitate policy dialogue on enabling MSMEs to leverage innovation and emerging technologies, including generative artificial intelligence, supported by digital skills and enabling policy and regulatory frameworks, for competitiveness and growth;
- Exchange good practices and success stories in supporting MSME digital transformation, formalization, and access to finance and market opportunities;
- Strengthen partnerships among governments, international organizations, the private sector and financial institutions to support MSMEs in contributing to SDG acceleration.
Thematic focus
The event will explore the following interrelated themes:
- MSMEs in a Challenging World
Strengthening MSME resilience in the face of economic, social, environmental and digital shocks.
- Innovation, Technology and Sustainable Industrial Development
Leveraging digital transformation, generative AI and green technologies to enhance MSME competitiveness and contributions to sustainable industrial development.
- Bridging the Digital and Technology Divide
Ensuring inclusive access to digital infrastructure, skills, and innovations
- Access to Affordable Finance and Market Opportunities
Expanding innovative financing mechanisms, including blended finance, and improving MSME integration into global supply chains
Format
The event comprises a high-level panel discussion complemented by interactive exchange. It will bring together:
- Delegates from Member States
- Representatives from the United Nations system
- MSME entrepreneurs and private sector representatives
- Development partners and academia participant
Agenda
10:00 – 10:20 | Welcome and Opening Remarks
Moderator: Anna Mori, Head, Sustainable Supply Chains & SMEs, United Nations Global Compact
- H.E. Ambassador Wellington Darío Bencosme Castaños, Permanent Representative of Dominican Republic to the United Nations
- H.E. Ambassador Dr. Chola Milambo, Permanent Representative of Republic of Zambia to the United Nations
- Mr. Navid Hanif, Assistant Secretary-General for Economic Development, United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs
- Ms. Dorothy Tembo, Deputy Executive Director, International Trade Centre (virtual)
10:20 – 11:15 | Panel “Empowering Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs)
through Innovation and Sustainable Industrial Development”
Moderator: Anna Mori, Head, Sustainable Supply Chains & SMEs, United Nations Global Compact
- Andrés Bisonó León - SOS Carbon
- Chilumba Mutale, Yaaka E-waste recycling company
- Duygu Ozen, WE7
- Eugenia Boateng - youth MSMEs in Africa
Moderator Wrap-Up & Takeaways
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