The African Union MSME Forum is an annual event that focuses on the growth and development of MSMEs in Africa. This forum provides a platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs to come together and discuss various challenges. Moreover, they share valuable insights and explore numerous opportunities for small businesses in Africa.

The 4th Annual AU MSME Forum will take place in Abuja, Nigeria from June 23-27, 2025, under the theme “Building Resilient MSMEs through Digital Innovation, Market Access & Affordable Financing for Africa“

The African Union MSME Forum pursues several important objectives to support the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Africa.

Primarily, the forum aims to educate small businesses about various financial products and opportunities available to them. This knowledge empowers entrepreneurs to make informed decisions about their financial strategies.

Additionally, the forum emphasizes the importance of essential infrastructure for providing grants to MSMEs, ensuring that support reaches those who need it most.

The African Union MSME Forum is anticipated to host between 300 and 400 delegates from across Africa.

The attendees will include a diverse group of stakeholders such as African small business owners, directors of MSME development agencies from African Union member states, investors, policymakers, and development partners, among others.

This diverse representation ensures a comprehensive discussion on the challenges and opportunities facing MSMEs in Africa, fostering collaboration and the sharing of valuable insights.

Yes, the African Union Commission has made provisions for virtual participation to ensure wider accessibility and inclusivity. For those unable to attend the forum in person, a livestream link will be provided, allowing remote participants to engage with the event’s proceedings in real-time.

Moreover, the virtual experience will be enhanced through online exhibitions. These digital showcases will offer participants an opportunity to explore innovative products, services, and ideas from MSMEs across Africa, regardless of their physical location. 

The African Union will not cover the cost of participation in the MSME Forum. Attendees are responsible for their own travel, accommodation, and other related expenses.

This policy ensures that the forum can focus its resources on delivering a high-quality event and supporting the broader objectives of MSME development across Africa.

The detailed event agenda is available on our Agenda page. It includes session times, topics, and speaker information for each session.

This comprehensive schedule will help you plan your participation and stay informed about all the activities and discussions taking place during the forum.

Yes, the forum includes a variety of panel sessions, side events, and breakout sessions on topics such as funding opportunities for MSMEs in Africa, digital transformation, and market expansion. Detailed information can be found on the Agenda page. These sessions are designed to provide valuable insights, foster networking, and facilitate knowledge exchange among participants.

While direct contact information is not provided, you can engage with speakers during their sessions and networking events at the African Union MSME Forum.