“AI-powered Digital and Sustainable SME Finance” was this year’s “Global SME Finance Forum” main theme. AI is becoming an increasingly important tool for the development of SMEs. If adequately used, it can help SMEs progress in the achievement of sustainability goals but also in addressing financial inclusion challenges. At the same time, shedding light on the potential threats posed by the misuse of such technology is another fundamental point to take into account when considering the revolution brought by AI.
This year, the Global SME Finance Forum took place on September 16-18, 2024, in Sao Paulo (Brazil) and it brought together participants from across the globe to discuss around the AI theme but also to network and sharing innovations and best practises. The organisation was in the hands of the SME Finance Forum, a network of over 300 leading banks, non-banking financial institutions, fintechs and development banks, created by the G20 in 2012.
Given the G20 Brazil Presidency, the choice of hosting the Global SME Finance Forum in the financial centre of the country can be strategic not only for the international stage but also to engage the local companies. Moreover, the SME Finance Forum, being a G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion’s strategic partner, supports the Brazil government’s efforts in developing the SME Finance Action Plan.
Source: INSME Secretariat
