Africa SME Champions Forum : boosting the Top 100 African SMEs
On October 9 and 10, 2024, Abidjan, the economic capital of Côte d'Ivoire, will host the 9th edition of the Africa SME Champions Forum. This edition of the Forum, titled "Boosting the Top 100 African SMEs," will highlight the innovative strategies and essential collaborations needed to drive the growth of SMEs on the continent.
By the editorial staff
For a decade, the Africa SME Champions Forum has established itself as the flagship event dedicated to accelerating the growth of African SMEs. Since its inception in 2014, the Forum has committed to transforming the landscape of SMEs and supporting the growth of these essential actors in African economies. As the global environment evolves rapidly, with the necessary industrialization in the digital age, the Forum creates unprecedented opportunities for SMEs to thrive. To fully leverage these opportunities, access to strategic connections, funding, and empowerment tools is essential.
This year, the Forum will adopt a targeted approach, focusing exclusively on the top 100 SMEs selected across Africa. This event aims to provide a strategic and impactful framework, offer tailored support, and foster knowledge sharing. Through this unique approach, the Forum aims to open new pathways for sustainable growth and job creation, thereby contributing to the development of the next generation of African business champions.
A driving force of the African economy
African SMEs play a central role in the continent’s economy, representing 90% of businesses and providing 70% of jobs. Despite their importance, these businesses face significant challenges, including limited access to financing and management difficulties. The financing gap for SMEs in Sub-Saharan Africa could exceed $300 billion, making their growth even more challenging.
It is in this context that the Africa’s Top 100 SMEs Forum will take place. By bringing together key players from various sectors, this event will be a unique opportunity to create economic and industrial synergies. Participants will benefit from expert panels, « Masterclasses » on best practices in business management, as well as networking opportunities to exchange ideas and establish valuable contacts.
We are proud to host our forum in Côte d’Ivoire, a country that is positioning itself as a dynamic hub for SMEs
The event will welcome influential figures, including Sidi Ould Tah, President of BADEA, Serge Ekué, President of BOAD, and Patricia Ojangole, General Director of the Uganda Development Bank. These leaders will share their visions and expertise to strengthen support for SMEs in Africa.
« We are proud to host our forum in Côte d’Ivoire, a country that is positioning itself as a dynamic hub for SMEs, » says Didier Acouetey, the founder of AfricSearch and organizer of the Forum. « We look forward to welcoming leaders from various industries to share their ideas and encourage innovation. »
For more information : Africa SME Champions Forum
Related topic : AFRICA SME CHAMPIONS FORUM 2023 : “Africa’s development will be achieved through SMEs”
