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Economic development is one of the main drivers toward achieving sustainable development. Under the 2030 Agenda, its scope has drastically expanded to include the concept of inclusive and just economic growth. Thus, the focus of economic development has moved from ‘how much developed’ to ‘how well developed’. In this new paradigm, ensuring a concerted participation has become one of the most important criteria for sustainable development.

Likewise, CIFAL Jeju/JITC has expanded its scope of workshops to include various aspects of economic development, such as sustainable urbanization, tourism, entrepreneurship, rural and agricultural development, smart city, green finance, and so on.

[July 19-21, 2023] Workshop on Advancing the Digital Capacities of SMEs & Startups for Inclusive and Sustainable Industrial Development

2024.06.11

UNITAR Jeju International Training Center (JITC) organized a hybrid Workshop, titled "Advancing the Digital Capacities of SMEs & Startups for Inclusive and Sustainable Industrial Development," in Jeju Island on July 19-21, 2023. The Workshop aimed to equip SMEs and startups from Asia-Pacific countries with insights into the latest developments in digital technology. The Workshop featured lecture sessions, 2 case presentations, participants interactions and a field trip to KAKAO headquarters located in Jeju. The Workshop gathered 9 economic officers working in Seoul, representing Embassies mostly from Asia Pacific countries, 20 representatives from Korean SMEs and startups, as well as over 190 online participants from 30 countries.

The sessions covered various aspects of digital transformation for SMEs and startups. Session 1 addressed structural gaps in SME digitalization and emphasized the importance of enhancing data governance. Representatives from the OECD discussed disparities in digital infrastructure access and introduced the "Going Digital" strategic framework. Session 2 led by the Asia Foundation covered topics on the utilization of digital technologies in the Asia-Pacific region and the need for government support in digital transformation. During Session 3, one Korean consulting firm representative addressed digital transformation by evaluating digital maturity, with a specific focus on the “Why,” “What,” and “How” approach.

The subsequent sessions explored AI applications, financing strategies, and successful digitalization cases. The National Information Society Agency representative discussed AI technology development trends and their implications for SMEs in Session 4. Sessions 5, 6, and 7 concentrated on securing financing through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and sharing successful digital transformation examples. These sessions featured speakers from Korea Overseas Infrastructure & Urban Development Corporation and Korea International Trade Association, who emphasized the important role of PPP and CEO leadership in digital transformation. Participants engaged in group activities to share insights and updates on digitalization efforts, ultimately fostering a platform for identifying business opportunities and enhancing digital capacities in the Asia-Pacific region.

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