SME Compliance & Growth: South Africa’s SMME leaders are warning that compliance can’t be an afterthought, arguing that weak structures and informal operations stall growth and keep talented owners from scaling. Women & Infrastructure: A push for women’s economic empowerment is shifting from speeches to basics—safe mobility, reliable services, and infrastructure that lets women access markets and start businesses. Regulation That Hits Delivery Margins: Kuwait’s new delivery rules (from Sept 1) cap delivery fees and limit platform commissions, forcing platforms and merchants to rethink pricing and operations. Licensing for Freelancers: Kuwait is also studying changes to freelance and micro-business licensing to make it easier to start while tightening transparency on real owners. SME Finance With Job Outcomes: Jordan’s Bank al Etihad is joining a “Guarantee for Employment” program that links financing access to hiring results for MSMEs. Tech for Small Business: SurveyMonkey is adding ChatGPT-powered survey creation so even non-experts can generate tailored customer and employee feedback in minutes. AI Adoption for Entrepreneurs: The Philippines launched a DTI AI and Scale Up Center to help SMEs adopt AI and digital tools through hands-on training. Local Market Support: South Bend opened Mercado de la Western to spotlight Hispanic culture and give local vendors a community-driven sales hub. Climate Risk to Food Security: Zimbabwe is betting on solar-powered irrigation to protect farming as El Niño risk threatens rainfall reliability. Startup Incubation: Rutland’s accelerator is relaunching to help new businesses stick around, adding workshops on customers, business models, and pitching.