Cotonou: 10th Edition of the Africa SME Champions Forum

The 10th edition of the Africa SME Champions Forum will take place on May 8-9, 2025 at the Sofitel Cotonou Marina, Benin. Recognized as the leading continental platform dedicated to the development of African SMEs, this forum marks a decisive milestone in mobilizing public and private actors in support of Africa’s private sector.

This edition will reinforce its pivotal role by launching the Continental Pact for African SMEs (2025-2035) — a collective commitment aimed at building a competitive, innovative, and resilient SME ecosystem on a global scale, with the backing of governments, investors, and institutions.

📌 Key Highlights of the Program:

• Conferences and panel discussions on SME strategic transformation, financing, digitalization, and public-private partnerships.
• SME Solutions Center providing tailored business support services and financial advisory.
• Deal Room enabling exclusive B2B matchmaking sessions between SMEs, investors, and financial institutions.
• Gala Dinner and Africa SME Awards Ceremony, honoring high-impact, fast-growing enterprises contributing to Africa’s economic transformation.

📌 Main Themes:

• The Continental Pact for SMEs as a driver of growth and employment.
• The challenge of mobilizing USD 50 billion in SME financing.
• Digitalization and risk management through artificial intelligence and fintech solutions.
• Integrating SMEs into Africa’s industrial value chains.

📌 Target Audiences:

• High-growth African SMEs
• Policymakers and government representatives
• Development finance institutions and investment funds
• International organizations and professional federations