MSME Day 2024: Leveraging the Power of MSMEs to Accelerate Sustainable Development

Designated to raise awareness of the pivotal role that MSMEs play in society at the global level, this year's theme reflects on the power and resilience of MSMEs to accelerate sustainable development and eradicate poverty in times of multiple challenges. 

Ahead of the 2030 deadline for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and with many countries around the world facing interconnected challenges from the cost-of-living crisis to ongoing conflicts, it is crucial to emphasize the vital role that MSMEs play in achieving this common, global objective. 

Worldwide, MSMEs make up 90% of businesses, accounting for more than 70% of employment and 50% of GDP. In the case of the European Union, SMEs themselves employ close to 100 million people and represent over 99% of businesses, remaining the backbone of the European economy. 

The 2024 MSME Day offers an opportunity to exchange ideas on how key stakeholders, including policy-makers, large companies, financial entities, citizens and the international community, can support MSMEs to advance the 2030 Agenda and contribute to achieving the SDGs, including the eradication of poverty and the proliferation of decent work. 

In this regard, MSME Day and European SME Week (ESW) share common goals and provide complementary work. Both promote entrepreneurship and provide existing and potential entrepreneurs with the information and support needed to set up their own businesses and fulfil their entrepreneurial dreams. 

Join us in celebrating MSMEs today and every day! Find out more about the events and activities taking place in the framework of MSME Day on the United Nations' dedicated website.