Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are essential to achieving circular economy and climate goals, particularly in the Global South, where they account for over 90% of businesses. Embedded within local and global value chains, MSMEs contribute significantly to value-chain
emissions and resource use. However, most sustainability frameworks, reporting systems and financing mechanisms have been designed for larger firms, often assuming access to data, technical expertise and dedicated resources that many MSMEs lack.

As governments and businesses accelerate climate and circular economy ambitions, a critical question arises: what conditions are needed for millions of MSMEs to participate meaningfully in these transitions?

This session will convene business support organizations, industry representatives, policymakers and researchers to explore practical solutions that enable MSME engagement. Drawing on emerging evidence, participants will identify barriers and opportunities across
finance, capacity building, policy, market incentives and value-chain collaboration and deliberate actionable recommendations to make circular and climate transitions more accessible, inclusive and scalable, positioning MSMEs as key drivers of sustainable development, resilience and low-carbon growth.