4th Arab SMEs Summit 2026 – Accelerating Growth and Entrepreneurial Success
Registration is now open for the 4th Arab SMEs Summit, taking place in Baghdad, Iraq, from 18–20 November 2026.
Organized by ESCWA and Iraq’s Ministry of Planning, under the patronage of the Prime Minister of Iraq and in partnership with the Central Bank of Iraq, the Summit will bring together entrepreneurs, SMEs, investors, policymakers, business support organizations, and development partners from across the Arab region.
Under the theme “Accelerating Growth and Entrepreneurial Success,” the Summit provides a regional platform to exchange knowledge, build partnerships, explore new opportunities, and discuss practical solutions for strengthening SMEs and entrepreneurship across the Arab region.
Key Focus Areas
The 2026 Summit will address key topics shaping the future of SMEs and entrepreneurship, including:
- Access to finance
- Emerging technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- E-commerce, formalization, and internationalization
- Green economy
- Creative and cultural industries
Who Should Participate?
The Summit is particularly relevant for:
- Entrepreneurs and startups
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
- Investors and financial institutions
- Policymakers and government representatives
- Business support organizations
- Entrepreneurship ecosystem stakeholders
- Development organizations and partners
Why Participate?
The 4th Arab SMEs Summit offers an opportunity to:
- Connect with entrepreneurs, investors, experts, and ecosystem partners from across the Arab region.
- Explore potential partnerships and business opportunities.
- Gain insights into emerging trends, technologies, and opportunities affecting SMEs.
- Engage in regional discussions on entrepreneurship and private-sector development.
- Expand your professional and business network across the Arab region.
Event Details
Location: Baghdad, Iraq
Dates: 18–20 November 2026
Registration is currently open. Interested entrepreneurs, SMEs, investors, and entrepreneurship ecosystem stakeholders are encouraged to apply before the deadline.
For more information, take a look at the event concept note and the frequently asked questions.
