Deadline: March 16, 2026
The ICC-ITC-WTO MSME Group Small Business Champions 2026 competition is a new global initiative designed to celebrate and support innovative solutions that help micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) participate more effectively in international trade. This year, the focus is on harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to drive impactful change for small business exporters, entrepreneurs and trade-oriented organisations worldwide.
The ICC-ITC-WTO MSME Group Small Business Champions 2026 programme brings together three leading international bodies — the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the International Trade Centre (ITC) and the World Trade Organization (WTO) MSME Group — with the aim of spotlighting innovative approaches that use AI to solve real-world challenges faced by MSMEs.
Competition Overview
Small businesses and supporting organisations are invited to submit proposals that demonstrate practical, scalable use of AI to enhance trade capacity, reduce barriers, improve efficiency and create new opportunities for growth. The competition is structured to encourage collaboration, creativity and real-world impact.
Who Should Apply?
This competition is open to a wide range of applicants who can showcase AI-driven tools, models or initiatives that benefit MSMEs. Eligible participants include:
- Small businesses with AI-enabled solutions that support international trade.
- Industry associations, chambers of commerce and trade bodies offering capacity-building programmes.
- Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) focused on empowering small enterprises.
- Collaborative partnerships between any of the above.
Submissions should clearly demonstrate how the proposed solution helps MSMEs address key trade challenges through technology, education, access to information, logistics optimisation or market inclusion strategies.
Theme: AI for Small Business Global Trade
For 2026, the competition’s theme centres on Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool to scale MSME participation in global markets. Successful entries will illustrate responsible and ethical AI applications — such as predictive analytics, smart logistics, demand forecasting, and automated market insights — that help small businesses:
- Improve supply chain visibility.
- Reduce operational costs.
- Access timely and relevant market data.
- Strengthen competitiveness on the global stage.
What Winners Receive
Winners of the ICC-ITC-WTO MSME Group Small Business Champions 2026 competition will receive a range of benefits designed to accelerate growth and amplify impact:
- Invitation to the AI for Good Global Summit, taking place on 8 July 2026, where winners will gain full access and opportunities for engagement with thought leaders.
- Speaking opportunities at the summit, allowing winners to share insights and network with industry experts.
- Tailored mentoring and guidance to refine and scale winning projects.
- Global promotion across the ICC, ITC and WTO platforms, expanding reach and visibility.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 16 March 2026
Applicants should submit their proposals well ahead of the deadline to ensure full consideration.
How to Apply
To participate in this prestigious competition and showcase your AI-driven trade solution, visit the official application portal:
Learn More
For full details about the programme, eligibility criteria and competition guidelines, visit the official information page:
👉 Read more about the programme
Get Support with Your Proposal
Need help drafting, refining or reviewing your proposal for the ICC-ITC-WTO MSME Group Small Business Champions 2026 competition? Contact us for proposal drafting, refining and review.
