ICSB Sunday Times – August 24, for MSMEs WorldWide

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WEEK OF AUGUST 24, 2025

Support ICSB’s fresh insights as we celebrate 70 years of global entrepreneurship leadership. For seven decades, ICSB has been at the forefront of advancing small business policy, research, and innovation. Discover the stories shaping the next chapter.

ICSB Sunday Times Editor’s note:
Grab your coffee and settle in for this week’s ICSB’s Sunday Times. Our latest research uncovers a striking contradiction: while Polish MSMEs operate at only half the productivity of larger firms—potentially costing 6.5% of GDP—global evidence shows these enterprises excelling in adaptability during crises. At the same time, with 52.5% of SME executives citing talent acquisition as their top challenge, it’s clear this is more than a staffing issue—it reflects a fundamental shift in how work is valued and reimagined. — Dr. Ayman ElTarabishy

AACSB MENA Conference: Business Education Needs More Collaboration, Time for Action

The MENA region faces a complex landscape of global disruptions, including economic development needs, societal issues, climate challenges, digital transformation demands, and ongoing regional conflicts. However, these challenges present unprecedented opportunities for innovative solutions and collaboration. The region’s greatest asset is its human capital—particularly its overwhelmingly young and dynamic demographics. These populations must become future-ready with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate 21st-century complexities and drive meaningful change in an interconnected global marketplace.

By Sherif Kamel, Professor of Management and Dean of the Onsi Sawiris School, American University of Cairo

READ THE STORY

Editor’s Pick
The Future of SMEs: Navigating Digital Transformation, Sustainability, and Innovation in an Uncertain World

The primary obstacles confronting SME executives paint a stark picture: 52.5% struggle with talent acquisition and retention, while 43.8% grapple with growth and expansion. Access to finance remains elusive for 35.7%, and one in five operates within non-supportive policy environments. Perhaps most tellingly, 20% battle to maintain company culture and clear purpose—suggesting deeper existential questions about business identity in rapidly changing markets.

READ THE STORY

More from ICSB News

CUTTING EDGE RESEARCH

Small Business in Crisis

The productivity gap is stark. Polish MSMEs are only half as productive as their large-company counterparts, falling below the 60% benchmark seen in other advanced economies. According to McKinsey analysis, closing this gap could unlock value equivalent to 6.5% of GDP – highlighting both the challenge and the enormous opportunity.

By Alina Landowska

GLOBAL INSIGHTS

The Cairo Nexus

Cairo’s selection reflects the growing recognition of emerging economies as innovation centers. Egypt’s entrepreneurial ecosystem has gained momentum in recent years, making it an appropriate backdrop for examining how MSMEs adapt to technological disruption, supply chain volatility, and changing market dynamics. The conference aims to showcase both challenges and opportunities facing small businesses in developing regions while drawing lessons applicable globally.

By Ahmed Osman

INSIDE ICSB

New Board Member Named by ICSB Board

ICSB is pleased to announce the appointment of Rita Grant as Senior Vice President of Finance and Control and Treasurer

Professor Grant brings exceptional qualifications to this critical leadership role. As Emeritus Professor of Accounting at Grand Valley State University and a Certified Public Accountant, she combines deep academic expertise with professional financial management credentials essential for overseeing ICSB’s global operations.

From the Journal of the International Council for Small Business (JICSB)

Women entrepreneurs for sustainable development: A systematic review of enablers and barriers in emerging economies
Hossain et al.

How to Educate Tomorrow’s Entrepreneurs

The idea that entrepreneurship replaces college hasn’t been true for generations. Yet, stories of dropouts like Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, and Mark Zuckerberg dominate headlines, while graduates like Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Jack Ma, and Arianna Huffington are less often mentioned. A quick Google search on “successful entrepreneurs who went to college” primarily highlights those who never finished.

Research Methodology: Best Practices for Rigorous, Credible, and Impactful Research
Author: Dr. Herman Aguinis

Research Methodology: Best Practices for Rigorous, Credible, and Impactful Research takes a 360-degree view of understanding and doing research, helping readers become expert researchers, reviewers, and consumers of research. Renowned author, journal editor, and researcher Herman Aguinis distills the vast work on methodological best practices into a singular experience.

ICSB 70th Anniversary – From ICSB History Book

1. First Academic Journal in the Field (1963):

ICSB’s Journal of Small Business Management was first published in February 1963 and was the first journal dedicated to” small business management and entrepreneurship topics. The journal is now circulated in over 100 countries worldwide.

2. Academic Partnership Since (2003):

Since 2003, ICSB has been headquartered at The George Washington University School of Business, where it maintains its international office and oversees day-to-day operations. This represents over 20 years of collaboration between GWSB and ICSB.

3. Partnerships with Global Institutions

ICSB has established formal collaborations with organizations such as the OECD, the World Bank, International Finance Corporation, United Nations, International Labour Organization (ILO), and the African Union, amplifying the role of MSMEs in global economic and social development.