SME Finance Boost: Kenya Development Corporation (KDC) unveiled an SME-focused financing pipeline of over Sh18.5bn (and more than Sh51.8bn total) aimed at unlocking long-term capital across manufacturing, automotive, climate finance and small businesses. Digital Skills for Micro-Entrepreneurs: In Manila, PLDT and Smart helped DSWD upskill micro-entrepreneurs through #KonektedForLivelihoods, teaching social media marketing, smartphone product photography and safer online practices. Local Job Creation Push: Jobstreet by SEEK teamed up with DITO BizBayan to spotlight people-first workplaces, with an Employer Excellence award encouraging MSMEs to attract and retain talent. Privacy for Small Businesses on Messaging: WhatsApp rolled out username reservations so users can connect without sharing phone numbers, plus a way for creators and businesses to claim existing Instagram/Facebook usernames. Energy Transition Market Signals: New market outlooks point to steady growth in solar EV charging, transformers, portable power stations and the broader energy transition—useful context for SMEs eyeing clean-tech demand. Policy/Cost Pressure Watch: UK small defense suppliers are warning that delays to the defense spending plan are disrupting contracts and pushing some firms toward bankruptcy. Funding Applications: Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation opened its Economic Development Grant (up to $10,000) for nonprofits supporting small business start-ups and expansion.