Abidjan: The Summer University for SMEs (UEPME) 2024

Context and Justification

Africa, rich in diversity and resources, is constantly evolving. However, African industries face challenges such as structuring, access to finance, and technology. UEPME 2024 will focus on consolidating ecosystems to promote “Made in Africa”.

Theme

The challenge of Made in Africa: Structuring and consolidating ecosystems to affirm African industries.

Objectives

1. Structuring and consolidating ecosystems: Improve the visibility and competitiveness of African SMEs/SMIs.
2. Assessment and awareness: Identify major challenges of African industries.
3. Exchange and learning: Share experiences and best practices.
4. Networking: Facilitate partnerships among key players.
5. Skill development: Organize training workshops.
6. Promotion of “Made in Africa”: Encourage local consumption and international recognition.
7. Formulation of strategic recommendations: Provide recommendations for policymakers and financiers.

Expected Results

• Participation of 2500 companies.
• Publication of a detailed report.
• Strengthening participants’ capacities.
• Establishment of new partnerships.
• Launch of concrete initiatives.
• Increased awareness of “Made in Africa” issues.
• Strengthening the network of industrial actors.
• Development of a strategic roadmap.
• Stimulated investments.
• Highlighting African successes.
• Increased engagement of policymakers.

Target Audiences

• Governments, BCEAO, funders, technical partners, private sector organizations, ECOWAS, banks, investment funds, SMEs/SMIs, startups, managers, and expert consultants.

Special Guests

• Presidency and Prime Minister of Côte d’Ivoire, Ministry of Commerce, government members, directors of international institutions, company directors, banks, investment funds, SME credit guarantee funds, heads of employers’ organizations, GUDE-PME, SGPME, CI-EXPORT.

Program

• Panels: Discussions on main themes with various actors.
• Let’s Talk Business: Interactive exchanges on best practices and successful experiences.
• Keynotes: Capacity building sessions.
• Transmission Workshop: Knowledge transfer to new generations.
• Women In Business: Workshop on gender and women’s leadership.

Themes Covered

• Panels: Ecosystem structuring, regional cooperation, financing, technological innovations, creative economy, agro-food development.
• Let’s Talk Business: Sustainable development, human capital, women’s participation.
• Keynotes: Mergers and acquisitions, transformational leadership, marketing strategies.