2024 World Entrepreneurs Investment Forum Declaration: Harnessing Innovation for Sustainable Development and Economic Growth

The 2024 World Entrepreneurs Investment Forum, held in Manama, Bahrain, has concluded with a groundbreaking declaration urging the international community to harness the power of entrepreneurship and innovation in pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The forum, which took place from 14-16 May, emphasized the importance of including women, youth, persons with disabilities, and productive families in these efforts.

The Manama Declaration, to be presented to the UN General Assembly, recognizes the role of innovation in addressing socioeconomic and environmental challenges. It calls for promoting new sectors such as the creative economy and embracing digital transformation, including artificial intelligence, to create jobs and achieve economic development.

The discussions at the forum focused on fostering innovation and economic growth through entrepreneurship, partnerships, research and development, and creating a culture of innovation. UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the importance of harnessing entrepreneurship and innovation to make the world a better place for all.

Key topics at the forum included sustainable partnerships for Arab and African entrepreneurs, innovation-conducive ecosystems, financial inclusion, and leveraging agricultural technology for food security. The event also saw the launch of the International Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (ICEI).

The World Entrepreneurship Investment Forum, facilitated by the UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) Investment and Technology Promotion Office in Bahrain, in collaboration with various partners, aims to promote entrepreneurship and innovation towards achieving the SDGs and fostering economic development. Together, stakeholders are working towards a brighter future for all people and the planet we share.