SMEs face significant challenges with regards to receiving and accessing funding from financial institutions and in their capacity to integrate ESG practices to sustain their economic growth. Moreover, the process by which SMEs can receive funding from financial institutions is often complex and extensive, thus hindering SMEs from seeking the support of the banking sector.

The session aims to discussing SMEs challenges in tapping into the growing pool of Sustainable Finance, Introducing SME tailored climate finance product development, Strengthening discourse among the SMEs supportive ecosystem, Mobilizing financial institutions towards the empowerment of Egypt’s SME landscape, also to Highlighting the role of SMEs in achieving Egypt’s sustainable development goals, unlocking new green financing opportunities (Sustaining/Greening the Supply Chain) and Exploring policies and regulations in place to support SMEs growth.

The retail trade sector is crucial to the Egyptian market as it serves as a driving force. The Egyptian economy is highly diversified, making it one of the most varied industries in the Middle East. With its consumer-oriented nature, the retail sector has been the first to experience significant growth within this industry, attracting both Arab and foreign investors. Over the past decade, the retail trade sector has undergone substantial growth and transformations. This can be attributed to the entrance of numerous major international brands into the regional markets, as well as the remarkable progress achieved by local brands, positioning them for global expansion. This session aims to highlight the various technologies and initiatives adopted by retail companies to increase their market share, improve customer experiences, and drive revenue growth. It examines successful expansion strategies, such as the implementation of innovative technologies, targeted marketing campaigns, optimization of operational processes, and utilization of the latest mechanisms

Governance in the Egyptian Context: Opportunities and Challenges

• There are various efforts aimed at supporting investment projects, particularly small and medium-sized ones, by offering affordable financing. Many international agencies are also involved in this endeavor to promote economic growth across different sectors. However, the primary obstacle lies in the procedures of securing financing, which often hinder business owners from obtaining suitable funding. These obstacles can include the burdensome routine processes, challenges in providing required data, or engaging in activities that are deemed unsuitable. Consequently, certain sectors experience a lack of growth, necessitating a reassessment of the conditions for obtaining financing and making it more accessible to a wide range of business owners. This approach would contribute to economic growth and the positive impact of these projects on the ground. Thus, the session will shed light about strategies to overcome these challenges and remove difficulties and obstacles. The ultimate goal is to bridge the gap between investors and financiers.

Showing some models.

Fintech is becoming increasingly important for the advancement of industries in Egypt, with financial technology playing a crucial role. With the emergence of numerous startup companies in the field and their innovative products and solutions being introduced in the market each year, Egypt is considered a favorable environment for the growth of financial technology.

This session will explore the impact of financial technology on traditional financial services and its role in promoting financial inclusion, wealth management, and investment opportunities, serving as an incentive for innovation in the present and future.

The success of exit models in economic markets is a key indicator of the strength of those markets. These exit models play a significant role in the growth and expansion of companies, as they facilitate their transition to a new stage. To ensure a successful exit, investors need to understand various business models and devise a flexible strategy. The session aims to discuss these aspects and provide insights on developing a clear strategy to make a smart exit.