The "Sustainable Suppliers" Program, a global initiative for the internationalization of SMEs, has come to an end.

 

For five months, the program has provided SMEs with structured and accessible training, addressing key challenges in sustainability, from resource scarcity to regulatory complexity. The training was delivered through a free, multilingual online platform (Spanish, English, and Portuguese), covering essential topics such as Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), the Ten Principles of UN Global Compact and the integration of best practices into their daily operations. The training modules, complemented by guides and real-life cases, offered concrete tools for the sustainable transformation of these companies.

 

En SpainThe participation of 48 major companies was crucial in expanding the program's reach and strengthening its impact on the supply chain. Companies from strategic sectors such as energy, banking, construction, and industry integrated their suppliers into the initiative, actively promoting their training. This collaboration not only demonstrates a firm commitment to sustainability but also generates more transparent dynamics aligned with international standards and current market demands.

 

Participating companies are better positioned to meet sustainability standards, access new business opportunities, and strengthen business relationships with major companies.

 

Sustainability as a Lever for Internationalization

 

ICEX's participation in this initiative underscores its commitment to internationalization based on sustainable and competitive values. In an environment of ever-increasing regulatory, social, and environmental demands, preparing SMEs in sustainability is key to ensuring their access to new opportunities in global markets. ICEX, as a driving force and strategic partner, contributed to the design, dissemination, and implementation of the program, facilitating access to training for its supplier companies and promoting their active participation.

Better Preparation, More Opportunities

 

The program has directly contributed to the professionalization of thousands of SMEs, enabling them to operate in increasingly demanding environmental, social, and regulatory environments. Thanks to this training, many of them are better positioned to comply with international standards, access green financing, bid with large companies, and build lasting business relationships.

 

Data from previous editions support its effectiveness: 83% of SMEs in the second edition have already incorporated the SDGs and sustainability principles into their business strategies, and 94% found the training useful and applicable to their daily work. In addition, participating companies receive a certificate certifying their involvement and strengthening their market positioning.

 

In the medium and long term, this impact will translate into more resilient, competitive, and sustainable value chains, consolidating the role of Spanish businesses in the transition toward a more responsible global economy.