Breakout session 2: Upskilling and reskilling SMEs and entrepreneurs to drive recovery and transformation
Jun 27, 2023 | 4:30 PM - 6:00 PMParallel session 2 Room CC7
Jun 27, 2023 | 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Parallel session 2 Room CC7
Description
SMEs and entrepreneurs are highly dependent on skills to remain competitive but face greater challenges than larger firms in accessing and retaining skilled labour. They are disproportionately affected by skills shortages which can result in a reduced capacity to buffer through re-organisation, outsourcing, or automation. The traditional challenges SMEs and entrepreneurs face in accessing skills is magnified by the scale and rapidity of structural transformations taking place. Rapid technological changes are creating new skills gaps, while the demand for soft skills is also increasing. Skills ecosystems, encompassing local entities like incubators, accelerators, education and training institutions, can help SMEs access expertise and knowledge.