Africa Internet Governance Forum 2025

Session Description: Empowering Youth-led SMEs in the Digital Economy: Policies for Inclusion and Growth

Young entrepreneurs are at the forefront of the digital economy, driving innovation and job creation. However, many youth-led small and medium enterprises (SMEs) struggle with barriers such as limited access to capital, restrictive regulatory environments, and gaps in digital literacy. This session will explore how policy reforms, digital platforms, and financial inclusion strategies can create an enabling ecosystem for young business leaders.

The discussion will feature real-world success stories of youth-led enterprises that have leveraged digital tools to scale their businesses. Experts from policy, industry, and entrepreneurship will assess the role of governments, financial institutions, and private sector actors in bridging gaps in digital infrastructure, funding, and skills development.

Key focus areas will include:
Digital and financial inclusion strategies for young entrepreneurs.
Regulatory frameworks that support SME growth in the digital economy.
Best practices from digital platforms empowering youth-led businesses.

By highlighting concrete solutions, this session aims to inform policies that promote sustainable and responsible innovation, ensuring that young entrepreneurs are equipped to drive inclusive economic growth in the digital era.
Attendees will gain valuable insights into policies and strategies that can empower youth-led SMEs in the digital economy. They will learn about successful case studies of young entrepreneurs who have leveraged digital tools and platforms to scale their businesses. The session will provide a multistakeholder perspective, featuring voices from policymakers, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs, offering diverse viewpoints on enabling youth-driven digital innovation.

Participants will also explore practical solutions such as financial inclusion models, digital upskilling programs, and regulatory frameworks that foster SME growth. Additionally, they will receive actionable recommendations on how governments, investors, and technology providers can collaborate to remove barriers for youth-led enterprises. Ultimately, this session will equip attendees with the knowledge and tools needed to advocate for inclusive policies that support sustainable and responsible digital innovation.