About the Institute
An evidence engine for the sector that powers the world economy.
Small and medium enterprises make up the vast majority of firms and employ most of the world's workforce, yet the decisions that shape their future are too often made without field evidence. We exist to close that gap.
Who we are
Independent, non-partisan, and grounded in the field.
The Institute for SME Transformation is an independent think tank. We study small and medium enterprises rigorously, listen to them directly through primary surveys, and put usable findings in front of the people who set policy and deploy capital — across sectors and economies. We take no partisan position; our loyalty is to good evidence and to the enterprises it can help.
Our vision
A generation of small and medium enterprises that compete on capability, not just cost — digitally confident, formally financed, and connected to regional and global markets.
Our mission
To generate practical, field-tested evidence on what actually helps small and medium enterprises transform — and to convene the people who can act on it. We do independent research, run primary surveys, coordinate across sectors, and keep participation free so that good evidence reaches everyone who needs it.
What guides us
The principles behind the work.
Evidence first
We begin with the field, not the assumption. Every recommendation traces back to data we can stand behind.
Practical by design
Research is built to be used by founders, policymakers and financiers — not to sit in an archive.
Open and free
Participation costs nothing. Good evidence should reach everyone who needs it, wherever they are.
Independent
Non-partisan and self-directed, so our findings answer to the evidence rather than to any single interest.
Get involved
Help build the evidence base.
Join as a student, corporate or fellow — membership is free and open worldwide.
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