Digital Nation’s Post

Strengthening the Private Sector: The recent inaugural meeting of the new Board of Directors of the Abu Dhabi Chamber, led by His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, marks a significant milestone in the Emirate's economic landscape. The strategic direction established during this meeting underscores the commitment to strengthen the private sector, vital for sustainable economic growth and diversification in the region. Key outcomes of the meeting include empowering the private sector, driving innovation, creating jobs, and fostering competition. Enhancing collaboration between public and private entities is crucial, encouraging the sharing of resources, knowledge, and expertise to stimulate investment and promote entrepreneurship. Aligning with the wise leadership's vision, the board prioritizes economic diversification and sustainability by investing in technology, renewable energy, and tourism. Initiatives such as trade fairs, business incubators, and support for startups contribute to a dynamic economic environment, reducing reliance on oil revenues. The board's commitment to elevating Abu Dhabi as a global trade hub is commendable, supported by the emirate's strategic location, modern infrastructure, and business-friendly policies. Efforts to attract international businesses and investors through free trade zones and enhanced logistics capabilities will bolster Abu Dhabi's global standing. Fostering innovation and digital transformation within the private sector is crucial in today's business environment. Embracing technology improves operational efficiency, customer experiences, and opens new markets. Supporting digital initiatives enables businesses to adapt to changing demands and technological advancements, ensuring a competitive edge.

The relationship between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan in the IT sector has seen significant growth, particularly highlighted by the LEAP technology conferences in Riyadh. These conferences have become pivotal platforms for showcasing Pakistan's IT potential, with LEAP 2024 hosting 74 Pakistani firms. This increasing engagement is further evidenced by the signing of various agreements during the event, such as the MOU between the Pakistan Software Houses Association and the IT Association of Bahrain. Partnerships like the Saudi-Pakistan Tech House, announced in March 2023, underscore the commitment to talent development and capacity building, with a significant investment of $100 million. As Saudi Arabia focuses on digital transformation through Vision 2030, Pakistan's IT exports to the Kingdom have soared, reaching up to $100 million in the past two years. Moreover, collaborations in areas like e-health and e-education offer promising avenues for mutual growth and innovation. Capitalizing on these opportunities will require concerted efforts to navigate challenges and foster talent cultivation, as highlighted by Pakistan's IT Minister Shaza Fatimah during a recent meeting with a high-level IT delegation. #sauditech #Pakistan #startup #technology #business #investment https://lnkd.in/d_PvUNjM

🌍Expanding Global Collaboration! EU|BICs outside the EU27: Did you know you can join the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) as an International Network Partner? This is a unique opportunity to expand your global reach, collaborate with European businesses, and tap into EU funding and expertise. 🤝 EEN, EBN and EU|BIC: Expanding Global Collaboration and Innovation Networks The Enterprise Europe Network, supported by the European Commission, is the world’s largest network supporting SMEs with international ambitions, connecting over 60 countries. For EU|BICs outside the EU-27, joining the EEN as International Network Partners opens up a vast range of opportunities. These include access to European markets, funding, research partnerships, and innovative business opportunities. 🔗 Ready to explore? Check out the steps to apply and learn how EEN can enhance your innovation ecosystem: 👇 #FriendsofEEN European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA)

#Partnership and #Cooperation at work for the #digitalisation of #SMEs in the transition to digital 🤝 Amplifying this great initiative and the work of our OECD partners, especially Marco Bianchini, and my fabulous colleagues Jeremy Rollison Maria Caruso Hector de Rivoire: Microsoft is a partner of the OECD Digital for SMEs (D4SME) initiative of the OECD Centre for Entrepreneurship, SMEs, Regions & Cities, a global collaborative knowledge platform that includes the public and private sectors, with the aim of supporting SMEs in the transition to digital. The initiative recently launched a survey targeting entrepreneurs and small businesses, open until the end of September, on the digitalisation of SMEs. By answering the questions, you will be able to make your voice heard by the governments of the 38 OECD member countries, including the German government, to help them understand how to best support companies that want to "go digital", improving the business environment in which they operate. The questionnaire is available (in different languages for easy use) here https://lnkd.in/ecewJsMt We have a fantastic SME ecosystem here in Germany - your feedback will be of tremendous value. So please take the time to fill out the survey and give feedback on what is needed for your next steps on the road to digitalisation! Hasti Darjani

📣 Our latest issue has just been published! Morocco has achieved significant progress in digital transformation, fueled by strategic government policies, substantial investments, and a vibrant ecosystem of startups and SMEs. At the heart of this success are digital talents who act as catalysts, empowering local businesses and strengthening Morocco’s creative industries. These industries, known for their resilience in challenging times, play a vital role in bolstering the nation’s economic framework. This paper presents three “Impact Stories” to illustrate how targeted digital initiatives, guided by a “Digital by design” strategy, integrate digital solutions from the outset, ensuring both sustainability and scalability. Furthermore, it reveals a critical need for education and training in technology and digital fields, which are essential for sustaining this transformation and equipping future generations with the skills necessary for ongoing growth and innovation. A contribution by Taoufik Aboudia , Entrepreneur, Strategic Advisor and Digital Transformation Consultant. https://lnkd.in/eFVtpMG3 Wishing you an excellent read! EBF Team #emergingbusinessfactory #ebf #emergingbusinessinsights #ebi #digital #talents #innovation #entrepreneurship #sme #startup #anapec #cri #cgem #pnud #undp #odd #sdg #onu #rowad #arabsmesummit —————— EBI in brief Emerging Business Insights (EBI) aim to produce actionable knowledge and practices in the areas defined by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations, with particular attention to the strategic choices targeted by the New Development Model (NDM) for Morocco’s future programs by 2035, notably the priority area entitled « Morocco of the Regions » as a full-fledged Sustainable Development Goal (SDG). Editor-in-chief : Pr. Soufiane Mezzourh

StrategEast's most ambitious project in Central Asia focuses on developing and promoting the region as a reliable provider of digital services, supported by USAID's Future Growth Initiative. We also highlight Central Asia's capability to develop products of interest to other countries,President of the organization Anatoly Motkin told Trend in an exclusive interview. He mentioned that another significant recent project for StrategEast is establishing a digital bridge between Central Asia and the Gulf countries. He also highlighted the emergence of several unicorn companies (startups valued at over $1 billion) in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. “The emergence of each unicorn company fuels exponential growth and heightened interest in the IT industry within these countries. Thanks to the vigorous efforts of Uzbekistan's High-Tech Park and the Ministry for the Development of Information Technologies and Communications, Uzbekistan is increasingly becoming a significant player on the global outsourcing map. It is crucial that not only local IT companies are involved in attracting new clients, but this initiative has also gained support at the state level,” he added. He stated that Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and other countries in the region have realized that collaborating and promoting themselves collectively is far more effective and easier than doing so individually. He pointed out that institutions like the Silkroad Innovation Hub in California (US) and the Al-Farabi Innovation Hub in Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), along with other initiatives, are already benefiting all countries in the region, not just their founders. The StrategEast president emphasized that Central Asia and the Caucasus can achieve significantly more by working together. When asked about the measures needed to develop the IT industry in less developed Central Asian countries like Tajikistan, Motkin noted that there are substantial drivers for digital transformation in these nations. However, he believes this is not sufficient for Tajikistan to catch up with its neighbors in digital transformation. Achieving this requires not only political will but also support from international financial institutions and development agencies, as well as the advancement of the academic environment, especially in fundamental sciences like math, physics, and chemistry.Read more: https://lnkd.in/gt47eaGa

Want to boost your network and supercharge collaborations? Join us for our next Blueprint webinar: "Maximizing Your Network: Leverage Partnerships and Collaboration Growth." Learn how to build a standout personal brand online, network like a pro at events, and connect with potential partners and clients through social media and email. Discover the power of existing relationships for introductions and referrals, while providing value to others. Get set for win-win partnerships that drive success! Don't miss out on these essential strategies for network expansion and collaboration success. Secure your spot now and prepare to unlock unprecedented opportunities! 👉 Registration Link: https://lnkd.in/dKV_Qpyf Innovation Blueprint is an initiative by Raya FutureTECH and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH who are working together within the framework of the develoPPP funding program, which GIZ implements on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). Through the support of Raya FutureTECH and GIZ, Exits MENA designed a series of engaging webinars designed to inspire and equip you with the knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to thrive in the dynamic world of innovation and entrepreneurship. #Exits #RayaFutureTECH #GIZ #InnovationBlueprint #EntrepreneurialJourney #Innovation #developpp

ASEAN BAC: Driving Progress Through Agenda Continuity One of the most impactful initiatives to emerge from #ASEAN is the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC). Over the years, it has been a consistent driver of programs promoting regional integration, sustainability, and inclusivity. To maximize its impact, agenda continuity from one chairmanship to the next is crucial—ensuring that initiatives launched under one leadership are sustained and brought to full implementation. For example, Indonesia’s ASEAN-BAC chairmanship in 2023 introduced transformative legacy projects:    •   #ASEANQRCode: Accelerating digital payment integration across ASEAN.    •   Marketplace Lending Platform: Providing innovative financing access for MSMEs.    •   Wiki Entrepreneur: Encouraging knowledge sharing and collaboration among ASEAN entrepreneurs.    •   ASEAN Net Zero Hub and Carbon Centre of Excellence: Advancing sustainability and carbon neutrality across the region.    •   ASEAN One Shot Campaign: Strengthening public health resilience through comprehensive vaccination efforts.    •   Inclusive Closed-Loop Model for Agricultural Products: Enhancing agricultural supply chain sustainability.    •   #ASEANBusinessEntity: Simplifying regulatory frameworks to boost cross-border trade and investments. When Laos assumed the ASEAN-BAC chairmanship in 2024, it embraced the theme “Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience.” Its initiatives included:    •   ASEAN Plus Supply Chain Connectivity: Developing ASEAN Logistics Corridors to streamline goods movement, enhance trade flows, and harmonize regulations.    •   Green Infrastructure and Digital Integration: Aligning infrastructure investments with sustainability goals while advancing regional digital transformation.    •   Human Capital Development: Strengthening ASEAN’s workforce through cross-border education, skills training, and talent mobility programs. These initiatives are critical for addressing connectivity gaps, building resilience, and preparing ASEAN for future challenges. As Malaysia prepares to take the ASEAN-BAC chairmanship in 2025, I am confident it will bring fresh vision while championing the legacy projects initiated by prior chairmanships. Sustained commitment to these initiatives is essential for achieving long-term impact, fostering inclusive growth, and deepening regional integration. ASEAN-BAC’s leadership is like a relay race—where the baton of progress must be passed seamlessly, ensuring each chairmanship builds upon its predecessors’ achievements. Continuity and collaboration from #ASEANBAC chairmanship to the next can turn ambitious proposals into tangible results. What are your hopes for ASEAN in 2025? #ASEAN2025 #AgendaContinuity #RegionalIntegration #Sustainability #Connectivity #Collaboration #MilkenInstitute #IklasCapital Nazir Razak Anindya Novyan Bakrie Robin Hu Curtis S. Chin Tony Fernandes Laura Deal Lacey George Barcelon

We need your help. What is the best way for the federal government to catalyze much higher levels of investment, innovation and growth in Canada? This matters because, despite innovation being a stated government priority, Canada’s results remain underwhelming — especially when you consider our collective potential, and the billions spent annually on “innovation support”. In its 2024 Innovation Report Card, The Conference Board of Canada ranked Canada 15th out of 20 countries. We’ve all seen how this plays out in our lives, be it in terms of assessments of GDP/capita or median earnings/capita. With our gifts and talents, we should be a podium nation. Consequently, given our laggard status, I was astonished when one particular innovation program, Innovative Solutions Canada, had its budget cut in half earlier this year. Why? The government itself reported that the ISC program delivered $3.10 in GDP and $1.40 in tax revenue for every $1.00 invested. To me, cutting this program made absolutely no sense. In response, our office spent the summer looking into the 130+ federal programs that are intended to support innovation. We asked seven questions, made observations and considered ideas for improvement. This initial report is FAR from definitive. It is only intended to provide a starting point for a much wider discussion. Our hope is that Canada’s innovators will now step in and provide their thoughts here on LinkedIn with the hashtag #CatalyzingCdnInnovation. Please review this initial report. Then, with your help, I’m confident that we can uncover actionable insights for improving the effectiveness of Canada’s innovation programs. Collectively, let’s work to ensure that federal investments catalyze increasing levels of private sector investment that accelerate Canada’s competitive success, globally. Thanking you in advance for your help, as well as Ryan Laberge, Benedicta Arthur and David Dlab for their extensive and dedicated work on this initial report. It wouldn’t have happened without them. In our office, we firmly believe that “An Innovative Economy Needs An Innovative Government.” I don’t believe that government can become innovative without first listening to, following the lead of, and catalyzing the success of, private sector innovators. Their individual success will fuel our collective success.

Thank You Colin Deacon for leading this discussion paper ... Here is a quote from the work - "Despite the billions in funding dedicated to promoting business innovation, Canada received a ‘C’ grade on the Conference Board of Canada’s 2024 Innovation Report Card, ranking us 15th out of 20 countries. This Government has consistently emphasized innovation as a priority, yet results remain underwhelming considering our collective potential." Canada needs innovation to keep the number of jobs up (63% of Canada's workforce comes from small businesses with less than 100 employees, 21% in the 100-499 category and only 16% from the 500+ club - StatsCan March 2023) .. innovation is one way to help create jobs. ISED needs to hire entrepreneurs to help get the program right ... the civil servants need to have metrics that really measure what counts, all the civil servants in the program need to understand how payroll and cashflow might impact the small and medium businesses they work with and KPIs to show they are on track. Here is the discussion paper ... Senator Deacon is looking for comments... please read and comment.