ICC and TikTok partner to empower small businesses through new global initiative: Digital Commerce Labs
ICC Academy will deliver the training at the heart of the new global programme helping small businesses strengthen their digital presence.
The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and TikTok have launched the Digital Commerce Labs, a free training programme designed to help entrepreneurs and small businesses strengthentheir digital presence, reach more customers, and grow in today’s digital economy.
ICC Academy – the online, educational arm of the ICC – will deliver part of the programme through its learning management system, with self-paced online modules guiding participating businesses through building an effective digital strategy, creating impactful content, and choosing the right channels to grow sustainably.
The programme is set to roll out in select markets across Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia, combining TikTok’s reach and digital commerce tools with ICC’s global network of national committees and chambers of commerce.
The programme has now launched, starting with three Spanish-speaking regions: Peru, Mexico, and Colombia.
How can you take part?
The Digital Commerce Labs consists of three key components: community events, online modules, and virtual classrooms.
- Community-building events: Connect and network with fellow entrepreneurs and discover the trends shaping the next wave of digital growth.
- Self-paced online modules: Short, mobile-first lessons hosted on ICC Academy focusing on content creation, multichannel marketing, and optimisation with AI tools, developed by regional experts. A pre-assessment guides participants to the right lessons and a certificate of completion is awarded at the end.
- Virtual classrooms: Interactive sessions led by local experts from ICC, TikTok, and beyond, where participants apply what they’ve learned through workshops, tool demonstrations, and collaborative exercises.
Why it matters
Digital commerce is growing almost four times faster than traditional markets, with over 2.7 billion consumers now buying online – a shift that leaves businesses without a digital presence at risk of being left behind. The Digital Commerce Labs, gives entrepreneurs a structured, hands-on way to close that gap: practical tools, expert guidance, and a community of peers, all completely free of charge.
Frequently asked questions
How is this programme different from other digital commerce resources?
Digital Commerce Labs goes beyond standalone tutorials by combining practical training, networking, and expert-led support into one structured learning journey – community events, self-paced modules, and virtual classrooms where participants apply their knowledge and connect with fellow entrepreneurs.
The content is also tailored to the realities of each participating market, giving businesses real-world examples and exposure to a range of tools and perspectives – a guided, hands-on experience built to turn learning into business growth.
What type of business is this programme designed for?
Digital Commerce Labs is designed for entrepreneurs and micro, small, and medium-sized businesses looking to strengthen their digital capabilities, attract more customers, and grow through digital commerce – regardless of sector or level of digital experience.
Multiple representatives from the same business are welcome to register and participate.
Is there any cost to participate?
No. Participation in Digital Commerce Labs, including events, online modules, and virtual classrooms, is completely free of charge.
How much time do I need to dedicate to the programme?
The self-paced online modules take approximately 4-5 hours in total and can be completed at your own pace. Community events typically run as half-day sessions, while virtual classrooms generally last 1.5-2 hours. Participants who successfully complete the modules and assessments will receive a certificate of completion.
Recognising that business owners and entrepreneurs have busy schedules, the programme is designed to be flexible. Additional time commitments depend on the events and virtual classrooms you choose to attend.
For more information about the Digital Commerce Labs initiative, contact the team at digitalcommercelabs@iccwbo.org.
