The inaugural Global SME Ministerial Meeting in Johannesburg was a landmark event, bringing together over 700 delegates from 60+ countries to elevate SMEs to the forefront of the global economic agenda. Centered on access to finance, digital transformation, and the green transition, the meeting delivered a unified Call to Action and established a biennial roadmap for sustained policy dialogue.

In partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, the Africa Leadership and Dialogue Institute (ALADI) delivered a crucial and unique contribution to the Ministerial. Our role encompassed:

We curated and supported a cohort of 11 exceptional young African entrepreneurs to participate in the Conference. Through an extensive joint-selection process leveraging both organizations’ networks, we ensured a diverse, dynamic group was represented. ALADI managed all travel logistics and provided facilitation stipends, removing participation barriers. In preparation for and during the Conference, the entrepreneurs received targeted support, including session briefings and training in media engagement, personal branding, and communicating for impact. This approach positioned them to contribute meaningfully, ensuring their lived experiences informed and influenced the policy dialogue.

In collaboration with our pan-African broadcast partner, CNBC Africa, we will produced a special episode of State of Africa, ALADI’s flagship program on the network, capturing young voices alongside insights from policymakers and other stakeholders at the event.