Namibia has been shortlisted as a finalist in the prestigious World Trade Promotion Organisation (WTPO) Awards 2024. Organised by the International Trade Centre (ITC), the awards recognise Trade Promotion Organisations (TPOs) that excel in leveraging innovative approaches to help small businesses compete on the global stage through effective trade development practices. The awards further celebrate excellence in providing trade support to MSMEs, ensuring their ability to thrive in international markets. Namibia’s application was facilitated by the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB), and focused specifically on the interventions that promote the growth and development of MSMEs in Namibia.
The ITC announced this week that the NIPDB has been selected as one of eight finalists worldwide, nominated in the category “Best Initiative to Ensure that Trade is Inclusive and Sustainable”, for the Know2Grow High Potential Pool Programme. The other nominee in this category is ApexBrazil.
The High Potential Pool is an initiative developed to support the growth of export-ready MSMEs by providing them with export-focused capacity-building, market access platforms, and global scaling opportunities. By participating in this programme, businesses receive the necessary tools and resources to effectively compete in foreign markets, contributing not only to their individual growth but also to the broader Namibian economy.
The awards jury, chaired by ITC executive director Pamela Coke-Hamilton, praised this year’s finalists for their adaptability and innovation. “It’s clear from the quality of the entries received for this year’s awards how trade promotion organisations are adapting their services to meet the rapidly changing needs of small businesses,” she said. “These finalists were selected by their peers for their innovation and excellence in trade development services.”
The winners of the WTPO Awards 2024 are to be announced on today, during an official ceremony hosted by the International Trade Centre.