What's Happening?
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has partnered with the Founder Institute to enhance entrepreneurship ecosystems in developing countries. This collaboration aims to improve access to global networks, investment, and business
opportunities for entrepreneurs in these regions. The partnership builds on UNCTAD's longstanding Empretec programme and will be officially launched at the FounderX event in Silicon Valley in August 2026. The initiative seeks to connect entrepreneurs with international expertise and innovation networks, linking Geneva-based development efforts with Silicon Valley's startup ecosystem.
Why It's Important?
This partnership addresses a critical barrier to entrepreneurial growth in developing economies: access to networks and investment. By leveraging the strengths of both UNCTAD and the Founder Institute, the initiative provides a structured pathway for entrepreneurs to engage with global innovation ecosystems. This is particularly important as digital tools and emerging technologies become central to business innovation and market expansion. The collaboration is expected to broaden participation in the global digital economy, offering entrepreneurs in underserved markets the opportunity to scale their businesses and contribute to economic development.
What's Next?
The launch of the partnership at FounderX will include an Empretec study tour, bringing together entrepreneurship leaders and high-potential founders from Africa, Asia, and Latin America with investors and technology companies. This event will facilitate knowledge exchange and collaboration, potentially leading to new business ventures and investment opportunities. As the partnership progresses, it is expected to foster a more inclusive global entrepreneurship landscape, supporting sustainable economic growth in developing regions.
