Deadline Date: March 16, 2026
The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the International Trade Centre (ITC), the WTO MSME Group, and the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) are inviting innovative proposals that help micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) use artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance their participation in international trade.
This year’s Small Business Champions Competition is focused on the transformational power of AI in global trade and aims to empower small businesses to optimize supply chains, reduce costs, and overcome trade barriers. AI-driven tools are now able to provide real-time analytics, track shipments, anticipate disruptions, and enhance compliance capabilities, enabling small businesses to navigate complex and evolving market conditions more effectively.
The competition seeks projects that harness AI to streamline supply chains and reduce transaction costs, while also supporting small businesses to compete more effectively on the global stage. Proposals may include AI-powered solutions that facilitate international trade, or training programs, workshops, or campaigns that teach small businesses how to use AI to enhance their capability to trade internationally. Other proposals with a clear link to small businesses, international trade, and artificial intelligence are also welcome.
Raise awareness among businesses and policymakers of the diversity and opportunities for AI tools to support MSME international trade, showcase new approaches and solutions that help MSMEs adopt AI for global commerce, and promote inclusive participation of small businesses in international markets through accessible and effective AI-enabled trade support.
The main award for the winning proposal is an invitation from ITU to participate in the AI for Good Global Summit on 8 July 2026. The winner will join a fireside chat with competition organizers to discuss the use of AI to support international trade. This also includes a Speaker Summit pass, providing the opportunity to attend all sessions, network with global AI and trade experts, and showcase the winning initiative on an international stage. Training and mentoring opportunities will be discussed with each winner according to their needs, while winning submissions will be promoted by the ICC.
Applications are open to small businesses developing innovative AI solutions for MSMEs, industry associations, chambers of commerce, NGOs, or similar entities providing training or support services in AI and international trade, as well as partnerships involving any of these groups. The competition is seeking initiatives that help MSMEs harness the power of AI for trade or small businesses that are already using AI to enhance their operations and global competitiveness.
For more information, visit ICC.
