In 2024, Generali expanded its SME EnterPRIZE project in Asia, building on the engagement carried out over the past years with thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from across Europe to celebrate and nurture a culture of sustainability.
MSMEs, the essence of the socio-economic fabric
In Asia as in Europe, small and medium enterprises are the bedrock of the economy in their respective countries. If we also consider micro enterprises (fewer than 10 employees and an annual turnover or balance sheet below €2 million) in the picture, in the ASEAN region MSMEs account for:
Therefore, protecting and supporting MSMEs means contributing to the economic stability and wellbeing of the region. These businesses must in fact face several risks, from the effects of climate change to business interruption and limited access to capital markets – and less than 5% has any form of insurance, which makes them particularly exposed to risk.*
Sustainability is at the heart of Generali’s strategy, as the Group is committed to acting as a responsible insurer, investor, employer, and corporate citizen. Supporting the transition of SMEs towards environmentally and socially responsible business models is a fundamental component of this commitment: promoting a culture of sustainability among small and medium enterprises, contributing to their financial resilience in the face of today’s challenges, means in fact promoting sustainable development in their areas of operation and reducing the protection gap for the most vulnerable communities.