Small businesses are the engines of inclusive growth, yet millions remain excluded from the global digital economy. As G20 economies advance in artificial intelligence and other frontier technologies, a persistent gap threatens to leave micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in developing countries even further behind. According to the International Trade Centre, one-third of entrepreneurs in least-developed countries cite a lack of digital skills and business knowledge as a key barrier to e-commerce. Research from the OECD highlights that digital skills training, especially when paired with practical support like coaching or vouchers, is a highly effective way to improve SME productivity and enable meaningful digital transformation. MSMEs that invest in digital training are significantly more likely to leverage digital tools and engage strategically online, particularly when such training is tailored and subsidised.

Rather than introducing another digital platform or tool, G20 policymakers have a chance to invest in something more foundational: digital capability. A targeted initiative that equips entrepreneurs with the skills and small-scale funding they need to compete online could create lasting impact. Canada’s Digital Adoption Program, which supported over 60 000 small businesses, offers a practical model for global adaptation by combining digital training with catalytic funding.

A G20-led global digital adoption programme

This proposal recommends launching a global digital adoption programme (GDAP): an initiative coordinated by G20 members to deploy digital advisors and microgrants to MSMEs in developing and least-developed countries. The goal is to close three interrelated gaps: skills, financing and capacity building.

• Tiered digital advisory services: The programme would provide three levels of support:
  • foundational onboarding through pre-recorded modules and templates;
  • group-based mentorship, including live virtual sessions and Q&A forums; and
  • one-on-one advisory tailored to individual business needs, delivered through local entrepreneurship hubs.
• Microgrants for digital tools and marketing: Modest microgrants between $300 and $1,500 would allow entrepreneurs to apply their new skills in practical ways. Funds could support activities such as setting up an online storefront, buying business software or launching digital marketing campaigns.

• Local capacity building: By training and certifying local digital advisors through partnerships with universities, incubators and business associations, the programme would strengthen in-country capacity and create sustainable support networks for small business digitisation.

• Results-based monitoring: To ensure accountability and measure effectiveness, the GDAP should track indicators such as increases in online sales, export activity and business formalisation. These data points can help governments demonstrate clear returns on investment and refine programme design. For example, tracking changes in online sales volume or export destinations can show the programme’s effect on market access. The GDAP could adopt a feedback loop that uses real-time data to tailor interventions and scale successful practices.

Why now?

The G20 has repeatedly committed to bridging the digital divide, promoting financial inclusion and supporting MSMEs. Yet in many developing economies, these goals remain out of reach without tailored support for the smallest firms. The GDAP would help translate G20 ambitions into concrete action. This programme aligns with the South African G20 presidency’s focus on inclusive growth. It offers a practical, scalable way to empower MSMEs, promote local innovation and strengthen global economic resilience.

By investing in people rather than platforms alone, the G20 can help ensure that the digital economy delivers shared prosperity across all regions, not just the most connected ones.