Climate Proofing SMEs

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) power the global economy, forming the backbone of supply chains and local communities. They make up 90 per cent of businesses worldwide, generate more than half of global GDP and emissions, and create 7 in 10 jobs - driving inclusive growth.

Yet, despite their critical role, SMEs remain unsupported in the net zero transition. While two-thirds already feel the impacts of climate change, 63 per cent of those committed to net zero say they have never been asked to reduce emissions, and 84 per cent have not been offered financial incentives to do so.

The Climate-proofing SMEs campaign calls on major corporate and financial actors to enhance support for SMEs to ensure that they not only survive but thrive in the race to a healthier, more prosperous and resilient world.

By creating a connected support ecosystem for SMEs to provide guidance and knowledge-sharing opportunities, the campaign connects global best practices with local networks and needs.

To showcase and celebrate the ambition and actions of climate-smart small businesses, the campaign encourages SMEs to join the Race to Zero and Race to Resilience.

Activity period 2024–present
Last CoAct update 2025
Web URL https://www.climatechampions.net/campaigns/climate-proofing-smes/
Output effectiveness
0.67
Accountability Index
0.00
Inclusiveness Index
0.44
Capacity Index
0.10
Num. actors 49
Functions Knowledge dissemination, Institutional capacity building, Campaigning
SDGs 7 8 13
Themes industry, finance, resilience
Policy focus Equal focus
Sectors No clear economic sector
Implementation countries Australia, Azerbaijan, Brazil, Canada, Chile, France, Germany, Grenada, India, Indonesia, Mauritius, Morocco, Netherlands (Kingdom of the), South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Nothern Ireland (the), United States of America (the)
Target Target type
No targets have been defined

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