WSIS&SDG TalkX - The Power of Connectivity and Digital Tools for Small Businesses
Broadband Commission, ITC, GSMA
Session 542
Celebrating MSME Day
In celebration of MSME Day, this session will center on the importance of connectivity and digital tools for empowering MSMEs, and the current work of the Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development on this topic.
As Co-Chairs of the Working Group on Connectivity for MSMEs, representatives from GSMA and ITC will introduce the background and motivation for the creation of the Working Group. In anticipation of the group’s report launch this September 2023, Co-Chairs will discuss the major challenges experienced by MSMEs and the need to advance the digital inclusion of MSMEs.
Working Group members will present case studies, exemplifying how multistakeholder collaboration is key to empowering entrepreneurs. Finally, we will hear first-person experiences from small businesses around the world on how connectivity and digital tools have changed their business for the better.
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C4. Capacity building
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C7. ICT applications: benefits in all aspects of life — E-business
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C11. International and regional cooperation
The session aligns with WSIS Action Lines C1, C4, C7, and C11 by promoting multistakeholder collaboration, addressing capacity building needs among businesses especially as it relates to digital skills building, exploring ICT applications in the business sector, and fostering international and regional cooperation. By linking to these action lines, the session contributes to the broader objectives of the WSIS process and supports the implementation of its action plans.
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Goal 8: Promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment and decent work for all
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Goal 9: Build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation
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Goal 17: Revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development
The session directly contributes to Goal 8 by fostering economic growth and decent work, Goal 9 by promoting innovation and infrastructure development, and Goal 17 by advocating for partnerships and collaboration. By addressing the specific needs of MSMEs and leveraging ICTs, the session aims to accelerate progress towards these SDGs and contribute to the overall sustainable development agenda.
