The OECD SME and Entrepreneurship Outlook 2023 reveals that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are navigating a landscape defined by disruption and transformation. From geopolitical tensions to the digital and green transitions, SMEs are at a crossroads where resilience and adaptation are not just desirable but essential. Here are the key takeaways:
1 Geopolitical and Economic Pressures:
2 Harnessing Digitalisation for Growth:
3 Global Value Chains (GVCs) and Trade Dynamics:
4 Closing the Gender Gap in Trade:
5 The Green Transition: An Opportunity and a Challenge:
6 Skills Shortages and Workforce Development:
7 Networks as Strategic Assets:
SMEs at a pivotal juncture
The Outlook underscores a critical reality: the SME sector is at a pivotal juncture. To consolidate recent gains and drive future growth, SMEs must embrace strategic adaptation. This means deepening digital integration, pushing forward with sustainability, and proactively addressing skill and trade disparities. Governments have a vital role to play, but the onus is on SMEs to position themselves at the forefront of change, driving resilience and innovation in a rapidly evolving global economy.
Read the report below
About the OECD
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is a unique global platform where governments collaborate to tackle the pressing economic, social, and environmental challenges of our time. Founded in 1961, the OECD brings together 38 member countries, including the world’s most advanced economies, as well as emerging nations, with a shared mission: to promote policies that foster prosperity, sustainability, and well-being across the globe.
The OECD’s work is anchored in rigorous data analysis, policy expertise, and evidence-based recommendations. It offers governments a critical edge by providing insights into best practices and benchmarking tools, enabling them to navigate complex economic environments and drive informed decision-making. From digital transformation and trade to education and climate change, the OECD’s initiatives are designed to address systemic challenges that demand coordinated, innovative, and sustainable solutions.
A Catalyst for Collaboration and Innovation
What sets the OECD apart is its ability to unite diverse nations around common goals. By facilitating dialogue and cooperation, it helps shape international standards that drive transparency, efficiency, and equity in the global economy. Through its influential reports, peer reviews, and policy dialogues, the OECD encourages countries to raise their ambitions and adopt forward-thinking approaches that can lead to lasting, impactful change.
In an era where businesses and governments are constantly adapting to new realities, the OECD remains an essential partner. Its forward-looking approach ensures that countries are not just reacting to challenges, but are strategically planning for a future defined by resilience, inclusivity, and innovation.
Strategically relevant
The OECD isn’t just a policy think tank; it’s a driving force behind global economic stability and growth. Its work empowers countries to navigate change with confidence, fostering collaboration that can unlock new opportunities and drive shared success. For businesses and policymakers alike, engaging with the OECD’s insights is not just beneficial—it’s essential for staying ahead in an interconnected and rapidly evolving world.
Ready to find out how we can work with you to help meet your business objectives and bridge the gap between buyers and sellers with our market-leading intelligence and decades of strategy experience.