Startup20

The G20 is a leading global platform for economic cooperation, bringing together 19 countries, the African Union, and the European Union. In 2025, South Africa assumes the G20 Presidency, marking a pivotal moment for the continent to shape global economic and development priorities. Startup20, an official G20 Engagement Group, was first launched under India’s presidency in 2023 and continues under South Africa’s leadership. It serves as a global forum for startups and MSME ecosystem stakeholders to engage directly with G20 leaders raising key challenges, opportunities, and macroeconomic concerns faced by entrepreneurs. Startup20 South Africa will operate through dedicated Task Forces, each focused on priority areas that drive innovation, policy support, and global start-up collaboration. The group will develop recommendations through a consensus driven approach, with outcomes presented to the G20 Presidency for consideration at the G20 Summit 2025. This initiative reflects South Africa’s commitment to empowering start-ups and MSMEs as key drivers of inclusive and sustainable economic growth, and its role in advancing global economic cooperation through innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation.