Cultivating Entrepreneurial Ecosystems: What the evidence tells us is needed

Entrepreneurship is top-of-mind for policymakers and donors as a key contributor to economic development. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are estimated to contribute up to 40 percent of national GDP in developing economies and account for 90 percent of businesses worldwide.

While much of the economic research in prior decades has focused on the viability and growth of individual enterprises, recent research has emphasized the importance of the social and economic systems surrounding the entrepreneur – commonly referred to as an “entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

This convening will aim to share insights from the Aspen Network of Development Entrepreneurs’ and SELCO Foundation’s research and experience on what it takes to build and cultivate thriving entrepreneurial ecosystems. Come hear from our experts from Nigeria, Brazil, South Africa, Bangladesh, Mexico and India on how the ecosystem can be made more conducive for Start-ups solving for sustainability. 

This discussion, co-hosted by ANDE and SELCO Foundation, is a part of Startup20X. Startup20 is an official engagement group, established under the G20 India Presidency 2023.