There has been a steady increase in entrepreneurial activity and the Small and Growing Business (SGB) support ecosystem over the past few years across the South Asian region. Though the countries in this region have different nuances, there has always been an underlying current of similarities in the challenges and opportunities the SGB ecosystem across them presents. This regional convening will follow up on the momentum built in the previous three editions around bringing the ecosystem of entrepreneur support organisations together to catalyse cross-border collaboration to accelerate on-ground action towards achieving the SDGs, especially in the changed political scenario globally.
South Asia Convening 2025 is taking place in the context of unprecedented global upheavals, the impacts of which are reverberating across the South Asia region as well. In this context, the main theme of the South Asia convening is: Building Tomorrow’s Ecosystems: Connect, Innovate, Transform.
Our Bangladesh Partners
Our Nepal Partners
Our Pakistan Partners
Our Sri Lanka Partners
ANDE would like to invite its partners to nominate themselves for designing, facilitating, or participating in sessions falling under these sub-themes.
Insights into strengthening place-based ecosystems – from diagnostics and policy to local collaboration. The recent changes in the global trade and development sector indicate a strong need to strengthen regional ecosystems and increase regional and local collaboration between ecosystem players. We also encourage partners to share their failures and learnings with the broader ecosystem.
Exploring the growing role of the private sector in supporting SGBs through supply chains, mentorship, procurement, and capital. Globally, corporations have been supporting innovation via multiple modes, and due to public pressure and increased awareness, Environment, Sustainability, and Governance continue to remain relevant.
From grants and blended finance to catalytic capital and outcome-based funding – what’s working and what’s next. Existing models continue to get refined and new models emerge simultaneously in the funding landscape. This is an opportunity for partners to share innovations and experiences with the broader ecosystem.
The convening is open to ANDE members and non-members working to support entrepreneurship in South Asia or looking to expand to South Asia.
We welcome:
- Accelerators, Incubators, and BDS Providers
- Investors and Donors
- NGOs and Development Agencies
- Policymakers and Researchers
- Small and Growing Businesses
Be a key discussant
Help shape the conversation by joining a session as a key discussant that reflects your insights, innovations, or lessons learned in the South Asian entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Contact Sucharita at Sucharita.Kamath@aspeninstitute.org.
Sponsor the Event
Support the growth of inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystems in South Asia by sponsoring the 2025 ANDE South Asia Convening. Our sponsorship packages offer brand visibility, speaking opportunities, and a chance to directly connect with key stakeholders driving impact across the region.
Contact Sucharita at Sucharita.Kamath@aspeninstitute.org.
Join the Discussion Online
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