THE POWER OF PEOPLE, PLACES & FIRMS
Reading Time: 3 minutesSmall businesses face significant challenges amid rising tariffs and changing trade dynamics, often suffering more than larger firms. Governments are introducing support measures and SME-focused trade agreements to enhance their participation in global and local markets.
Reading Time: 3 minutesSMEs and entrepreneurs are at an important crossroads. Recent challenges like pandemic shutdowns, high inflation, and rising interest rates persist, keeping financing conditions tight. As uncertainty grows, businesses and governments must choose: halt investments at the risk of innovation and competitiveness or find new ways to access capital.
Reading Time: 5 minutesSpecial Economic Zones (SEZs) have evolved beyond tax incentives to boost regional growth, focusing on infrastructure, digital connectivity, and talent. From Ireland’s Shannon Free Zone to China’s industrial hubs, their success hinges on strong governance and a place-sensitive approach. The challenge now is ensuring SEZs drive inclusive regional development.
Reading Time: 4 minutesMalmö, Sweden, transformed from deindustrialization to a vibrant tech hub through innovation and inclusivity. Minc plays a crucial role in supporting startups, showcasing successful collaboration, funding access, and community diversity as keys to economic growth.
Reading Time: 3 minutesSustainability reporting poses challenges for SMEs, hindering their green transition. To overcome this, accessible tools and simplified frameworks are needed, enabling SMEs to effectively demonstrate their sustainability performance and access green financing opportunities.
Reading Time: 4 minutesTown centres face significant challenges from online competition and economic pressures, yet local SMEs remain vital. Hybrid retail models and community-focused strategies can foster resilience, encouraging consumers to support local businesses and enhancing urban sustainability.
Reading Time: 4 minutesIntellectual Property (IP)- backed financing offers an opportunity for SMEs to find funding. This approach is still in its early days, and there are challenges to be overcome, however programs like WIPO’s IP Management Clinic can help SMEs navigate this space.
Reading Time: 3 minutesSMEs make up over 98% of businesses in the US, Canada, and the UK. AI tools can help them grow faster – but better policies and data are needed.