Introduction of Foresight Research Brief

The foresight research brief addresses the critical challenge of enabling inclusive digitalization for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). While SMEs are vital for economic growth, their digital transformation is hindered by a persistent Triple Divide in technology access, financing, and skills. This report moves beyond a generic diagnosis to provide a concrete, strategic pathway for turning these barriers into a bridge toward a resilient and digitally empowered future.

The analysis reveals that isolated solutions are insufficient. Success in digital transformation requires a coordinated, ecosystem-level approach that simultaneously tackles the interconnected deficits in infrastructure, capital, and human capital.

Key Contributions of This Brief: 

- A Systemic Diagnosis: 

We provide a framework that models how challenges in technology, finance, and skills reinforce each other, creating a cycle of exclusion.

- A Dynamic, Five-Phase Roadmap:​

The core of this brief is a practical, actionable roadmap that sequences interventions logically to build a self-reinforcing cycle of empowerment.

- Clarified Roles for Action:

We translate the vision into clear responsibilities for governments, financial institutions, technology providers, and SMEs themselves, enabling coordinated action.

In essence, this brief serves as a strategic compass for policymakers, industry leaders, and SMEs advocates. It combines rigorous environmental scanning with scenario planning to deliver an evidence-based framework for making strategic decisions today that will collectively shape a more inclusive digital tomorrow for SMEs worldwide.

Contact Information:

iac@caict.ac.cn

intdept@bifnc.cn