Prof. Dr. Zoltan Acs, Director of the Vienna Institute for Global Studies (VIGS), was invited to speak at the International Entrepreneurship Forum, hosted by the University of the Western Cape in Cape Town, South Africa.

In his keynote address, titled “Ecosystems of Learning: The Urban Dividend,” Prof. Acs examined how education, cities, and policy intersect to shape entrepreneurial ecosystems. He discussed the role of urban environments as catalysts for innovation and learning and highlighted how collaboration across sectors can generate inclusive economic growth.

As part of his presentation, Prof. Acs introduced new research from the VIGS Digital Entrepreneurship Ecosystem (DEE) Index, with a special focus on Africa’s digital transformation. The DEE Index provides a framework for measuring how digitalization supports entrepreneurship through four components: Digital Technology Infrastructure (DTI), Digital Users and Culture (DUC), Digital Market and Platform Interaction (DMSP), and Digital Technology Engagement (DTE).

The 2017–2022 data show notable progress in Africa’s digital security and technology infrastructure, alongside continued challenges in digital literacy, networking, and financial facilitation. These findings illustrate both the opportunities and constraints shaping the continent’s digital entrepreneurship landscape. Prof. Acs also introduced the forthcoming DEE Africa Index, which will extend VIGS’s global research by providing region-specific insights to inform policy design and ecosystem development.

Deputy Director Noemi Besedes attended the forum on behalf of VIGS. She presented the institute’s mission and current research initiatives, outlining areas for potential cooperation and exchange with partner institutions.

The forum brought together scholars, policymakers, and practitioners from around the world, creating a platform for dialogue on entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable development.