ICC-ITC-WTO MSMEs – Small Business Champions 2024 – Apply Now

The collaboration between the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the International Trade Centre (ITC), and the World Trade Organization (WTO) Informal Working Group on Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) has led to the establishment of the Small Business Champions Competition.

Small Business Champions

The ICC-ITC-WTO MSMEs – Small Business Champions was launched in 2021, it is an annual program that aims to solicit innovative proposals geared towards fostering the active participation of small businesses in international trade.

Overview of the Small Business Champions Competition 2024

The call for proposals for the 2024 edition of this competition extends to empowering Indigenous Peoples’ economic development through international trade. With the backing of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), this endeavor seeks to catalyze sustainable growth and inclusivity on a global scale.

Call for Proposals: Who Can Participate?

The call is open to a variety of stakeholders, including businesses, industry associations, chambers of commerce, and non-governmental organizations.

Specifically, entities supporting trade by Indigenous Peoples or communities, NGOs empowering small businesses within Indigenous Communities, and small businesses operating within or in collaboration with Indigenous communities are encouraged to submit their innovative ideas.

Proposal Requirements

  • Proposals submitted should align with the theme of fostering international trade among small businesses and Indigenous Peoples.
  • Proposals should incorporate elements such as awareness-raising campaigns, capacity-building initiatives, training programs, and mentoring schemes.
  • In addition, proposals should highlight clear international trade angles and demonstrate a genuine commitment to Indigenous Peoples’ consultation and approval.

Award Details

The awards are non-financial, but the benefits are invaluable. They include:

  • Winners will gain access to training on marketing, branding, pitching, and technical coaching provided by ITC and ICC.
  • Additionally, WIPO will offer access to relevant distance learning courses, empowering representatives of Indigenous Peoples and local communities.
  • Recognition through promotion on ICC, ITC, and WTO communication channels, coupled with a certificate of achievement, further amplifies the impact of winning submissions.

How to Submit Proposals

  • Proposals should consist of the project’s concept, aim, timeline, and relevant details within a maximum of three pages.
  • The inclusion of a brief video, not exceeding three minutes, can enhance the proposal’s appeal.
  • Ensuring the endorsement and informed consent of the Indigenous Peoples group referenced is imperative.

The following points should be covered when submitting a proposal:

  • Name of the organization
  • Brief description of the organization
  • Name of the proposed project
  • Challenge faced/issue to be addressed
  • A brief description of the project, including activities to be organized
  • Project objectives
  • Timeline for the project
  • Contact person (name, telephone, email)
  • A short bios of the persons implementing the project

For More Information, Visit the Official page of the ITC Call for Proposals: Small Business Champions at https://intracen.org/news-and-events/news/call-for-proposals-small-business-champions-2024

Selection Process

The selection process, overseen by representatives of ICC, ITC, and WTO MSME team, ensures fairness and transparency.

Inputs from WIPO further enrich the evaluation process, leading to the identification of deserving winners.

The announcement of winning proposals at the WTO is scheduled for   MSME Day, 27 June 2024.

Application Deadline

26 April 2024.

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