SUSTAINABILITY FOR SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES


Access practical tools, learning programmes and global resources designed to help SMEs integrate sustainability into their business.

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Why Sustainability is Essential for SMEs?


Small and medium-sized enterprises make up the majority of the business sector and play a vital role in sustainable economic development. Integrating sustainability helps SMEs to:


  • increase competitiveness and access new markets
  • respond to customer and investor expectations
  • manage regulatory and operational risks
  • strengthen business resilience
  • attract and retain talent


Sustainability is no longer optional – it is a key element of long-term business strategy.

Support for SMEs through the UN Global Compact

PROGRAMMES AND INITIATIVES


Participate in global and local UN Global Compact sustainability initiatives.


SPARK – Global Community for SMEs


A global UN Global Compact community designed for SME leaders seeking practical guidance to advance their sustainability goals.


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SME Compass



An online platform offering tools for human rights and environmental due diligence, and guidance on applying international sustainability standards in SME operations.

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UN Global Compact Academy

Selected E-learnings for SME


Learning programmes, practical tools and expert insights that help SMEs integrate sustainability into

business strategy and decision-making.



SME Sustainability Journey


This webinar series helps SMEs integrate sustainability and the UN Global Compact’s Ten Principles into their business practices.





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ESG Ratings and Certifications for SMEs: A Practical Deep Dive into Ecovadis


This webinar explains the EcoVadis sustainability rating, its methodology, and the key challenges SMEs face when preparing for ESG assessments.


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Introduction for SMEs


This module guides SMEs through the SBTi validation pathway and is recommended after completing the main SBTi modules.




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Report - SDG Playbook for SMEs 


The SDG Playbook for SMEs, developed by the UN Global Compact Network UK with Irwin Mitchell, helps SMEs integrate the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into their business.


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The what and how of Sustainable Design for SMEs


This module introduces SMEs to sustainable design, offering practical guidance on integrating sustainability into products, services, and business strategy.



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Environmental Sustainability for SMEs


Comprehensive environmental strategies help SMEs prepare for future regulations and become more attractive to investors, customers, and employees.





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VSME vs. GRI: Sustainability Reporting for SMEs


In this recorded workshop, experts from BDO Switzerland present a practical overview and comparison of two leading sustainability reporting standards.


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Future-proofing your small and medium-sized enterprise


This interactive course helps SMEs overcome key challenges and begin integrating sustainability into their business.





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EVENTS


Workshops, webinars and peer learning formats focused on the practical implementation of sustainability in business.


Events calendar

How to get started?


  1. Assess your current business practices
  2. Select the most relevant tools
  3. Join programmes and initiatives
  4. Integrate sustainability into your business strategy


Sustainability is no longer a choice – it is a key component of long-term business success.

Need more information?


If you would like to learn how your company can engage in UN Global Compact activities or have questions about available tools and programmes, please contact us or book a call.