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A program for the digitalization of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) has been launched in Azerbaijan 01.10.24

Digitalization will transform SME operations, propelling them to a higher level of efficiency and innovation, while significantly boosting their competitiveness.

An event was held which was dedicated to the launch of the SME Digitalization Program and created within the framework of cooperation between the Innovation and Digital Development Agency and the Small and Medium Business Development Agency (KOBİA)

The event was attended by representatives of government bodies and SMEs.

Sharing information about the initiatives being implemented within the framework of the country's digitalization policy in the fields of digital government, society, and business Samir Mammadov, Deputy Minister of Digital Development and Transport inaugurated the event. Touching on the importance of the SME Digitalization Program, Samir Mammadov said: "The main goal of the program is to support SMEs by promoting digitalization, enhancing their efficiency, competitiveness, and market reach. Seminars and training programs will be organized to educate SMEs about digital tools, strategies, and best practices, as well as initiatives such as CTO-as-a-Service vouchers are set to support the improvement of their skills." Additionally, he emphasized that the program serves the objective of promoting SME development through new and more efficient incentives, as envisaged in the "Strategy for Socio-Economic Development of the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2022-2026."

Orhan Mammadov, Chairman of the Management Board of KOBİA, spoke about the significance of digitalization in terms of improving access to new markets, enhancing the efficiency of the operational environment, and developing ways to engage with employees: "Digital solutions can facilitate the easier integration of SMEs into the global value chain, elevate their innovative activities, and increase productivity," noted the chairman of Agency. Elturan Ahmadbayli, the head of the SMB Digitalization Program submitted presentation on the four stages of the program's implementation. It was noted that the third stage of the program is currently under implementation. The program includes market research, analysis of global practices and local SMEs, meetings with suppliers, and the implementation of projects within the program.

Detailed information was also provided about projects such as "digiMATE" and "DIGI30." Fariz Jafarov, Executive Director of the Center for Analysis and Coordination of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, discussed the initiatives being implemented in support of the development of the digital economy: "The program established today plays an important role in conducting an initial assessment of SMBs, identifying their future needs for digital tools, and ultimately supporting them in a more systematic way." It is worth noting that the SME Digitalization Program was designed to help SMEs increase their competitiveness and expand market opportunities by utilizing digital tools and advanced technologies.The program aims to organize educational seminars and training for small and medium-sized businesses, and initiatives such as CTO-as-a-Service will also support skill enhancement.

Within the framework of project, the digital maturity of SMEs will be assessed, and individual roadmaps tailored to their needs will be developed. There are also plans to support digitalization initiatives through grants and other financial mechanisms. The “digiMATE” platform created in August 2024 has been put into operation to accelerate the digital development of SMEs .