SME and entrepreneurship

Compendium of the ICC Institute SME Labs on Compliance 

  • 3 December 2024

In today's fast-changing business landscape, compliance has become a critical aspect for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to ensure sustainable growth and mitigate risk. To address this need, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Institute of World Business Law has published a comprehensive resource designed to help SMEs understand and implement effective compliance practices. 

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This guide is available for download in English and Spanish.

About the Compendium 

Developed by the Compliance Task Force of the ICC Institute of World Business Law as a final output of the 2023 ICC Institute SME Lab on Compliance webinars, this compendium provides SMEs with a thorough introduction to the basics of compliance. The webinars brought together legal experts, in-house counsel and academics to explore the essential elements of a compliance programme. This guide defines the concept of compliance and offers practical insights specifically for SMEs.  

Key topics covered include 

  • Understanding compliance: What compliance is, why it is important and what the compliance function entails. 
  • Building a compliance programme: Identifying the resources, costs and essential elements required to develop a compliance framework. 
  • Compliance clauses: Exploring the importance of using compliance clauses, such as anti-bribery and data protection clauses. 
  • Compliance as an investment: Making the case for greater investment in compliance and understanding the risks of inadequate compliance measures. 

Equipping SMEs for success 

This comprehensive compendium is a valuable resource for SMEs seeking to navigate the complexities of compliance and ensure their business operates with integrity and accountability.

This compendium, developed by the ICC Institute of World Business Law, is a feature of ICC One Click, ICC’s wider offering of business solutions supporting small businesses every day, everywhere.