2026 Small Business Champions Competition

The WTO Informal Working Group on MSMEs, in collaboration with the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the International Trade Centre (ITC), has announced the launch of the 2026 Small Business Champions Competition.

The theme for the 2026 edition is "Supporting Small Businesses to Use AI for International Trade." This initiative seeks to identify practical and scalable proposals that assist micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in leveraging Artificial Intelligence to improve their global competitiveness and navigate the complexities of international markets.

Context and Objectives

As digital transformation continues to reshape global value chains, the SFA remains committed to ensuring that Irish small firms are not left behind in the adoption of emerging technologies. This competition focuses on how AI can be applied to:

• Operational Efficiency: Optimising supply chains and reducing administrative costs.

• Trade Logistics: Real-time tracking and trade analytics.

• Risk Management: Anticipating market disruptions and managing international trade risks.

• Regulatory Compliance: Navigating diverse international trade regulations through automated tools.

Participation and Eligibility

The SFA encourages member companies, industry associations, and NGOs to submit innovative proposals. To be considered, submissions must demonstrate a clear link between AI applications and the facilitation of international trade for small businesses. Proposals may focus on technical solutions, capacity-building workshops, or awareness campaigns designed to bridge the digital divide for exporters.

The winner of the competition will be invited to participate in the AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva on 8 July 2026, providing a significant platform to showcase Irish innovation to an international audience of policy-makers and trade experts.

Submission Details

The deadline for applications is 16 March 2026.

The SFA views this as an important opportunity for the Irish small business community to influence the global conversation on AI and trade. We encourage members with expertise in this area to review the full call for proposals and consider how their initiatives could support the wider MSME ecosystem. More details and the link to apply can be found here.