The development of strong innovation ecosystems is a key component of national development, as innovation, especially in ICTs, is a driver of economic competitiveness and growth in modern economies. ICT centric innovation ecosystems need to be established in order to accelerate sustainable development, composed of three pillars - social, economic and environmental. Creation of innovation ecosystem plays a critical role in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.

A dynamic business environment requires a coherent regulatory setting that guides, facilitates and promotes innovation activities. This includes creation of digital transformation roadmap with clear vision and strategy aimed at fundamental transformation of processes, and establishment of innovation agencies and funds.

Achieving “innovation readiness” often requires a change in organizations, leaders and networks. Building up the capacities of individual stakeholders in the innovation ecosystem helps to create that change.

The right ecosystem can provide both an inspiration for innovation and source of competitive advantage. The dynamics of start-ups in an economy’s technology sectors is an important indicator of technological performance. The challenging process of formation of new firms that focus on the development and introduction of new technology is a major source of innovation and technological advance. Many of these technology-based start-ups transfer new knowledge or new ideas for products and processes into commercial applications. Start-ups create new jobs through direct employment, creation of platforms that reduce or eliminate barriers to market access, and disruption of traditional sectors.

To catalyse the entrepreneurial ecosystem that consists of large firms, start-ups, universities and governments, the key is not just the roles that these organizations play, but also the interactions between them. Networks and knowledge sharing play a key role in the successful creation and growth of start-ups.

This session will discuss:

• National innovation approaches and digital transformation roadmaps
• Building digital innovation agencies and the role of digital innovation agents
• Building up the stakeholders’ capacity for digital innovation
• Knowledge sharing through innovation networks and collaborative environments
• Inspiring success stories of start-up companies offering innovative solutions for sustainable development.