Development Research Group

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) account for the vast majority of businesses worldwide. Yet many remain constrained by limited access to finance.

As governments, development institutions, and private lenders invest in expanding SME finance, a critical question remains: how can these programs deliver the greatest impact?

Drawing on a new global meta-analysis and evidence from a World-Bank-supported lending program, this Policy Research Talk examines what SME finance programs can achieve, which firms benefit the most, and how program design can improve results.

The session will also explore a key policy challenge: how can countries expand access to high-potential firms that have historically been excluded from finance when lenders often have incentives to focus on lower-risk borrowers?

Governments across emerging markets and developing economies (EMDEs) face a growing fiscal challenge. Yet the challenge is not simply about how much revenue countries collect. Tax systems in most EMDEs are also inefficient and inequitable, leading to costly economic distortions while failing to adequately support vulnerable households.

Raising Revenue Right: A Roadmap for Domestic Resource Mobilization examines how countries can raise the revenue they need in ways that are more efficient, fair, and supportive of inclusive growth. 

On September 23, authors of the report and World Bank leaders, will discuss its key findings and present a practical roadmap for domestic resource mobilization, showing how advances in 𝘁𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆, 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁, the 3Ts, can help countries move toward the fiscal frontier.

At a time when development progress has slowed to its weakest pace in 75 years, the World Development Report 2026 explores how artificial intelligence can help developing economies accelerate growth and improve lives.

The report argues that countries do not need to build frontier AI models to benefit from the technology. Instead, they should focus on adopting, adapting, and advancing AI to meet local needs, languages, and institutions. From improving medical screening and agricultural advice to helping teachers create better lessons, AI is already delivering results.

Explore the full report and learn how AI can be a lifeline for developing economies.