The UNDP Istanbul International Center for Private Sector in Development (ICPSD), in collaboration with Doğuş University, has launched a new report titled “Building Skills for an Agile Age: How to Empower Entrepreneurs for the On-Demand Economy.”

The report explores how the rapid expansion of the on-demand economy—particularly cloud work—is transforming labour markets and entrepreneurial pathways across developing countries. Enabled by digital platforms and global connectivity, cloud work offers location-independent income opportunities for youth, women and skilled professionals, while also raising important questions around regulation, social protection and digital inclusion.

Drawing on case studies from multiple regions, the report highlights how governments, development actors and private sector stakeholders can leverage cloud work to promote inclusive growth. It identifies enabling factors such as integrated skills development, platform literacy, public–private partnerships and ecosystem support mechanisms.

In addition to policy analysis, the report proposes a modular training curriculum framework designed to help individuals transition from securing their first cloud work opportunity to building sustainable digital careers and scalable entrepreneurial ventures. The curriculum outlines practical modules covering platform literacy, personal branding, service packaging and pricing, proposal writing, project management, client relations and pathways to digital entrepreneurship. This framework provides a concrete roadmap for universities, training institutions and development programmes seeking to integrate cloud work into skills development strategies.

Aligned with Sustainable Development Goals 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and 10 (Reduced Inequalities), the publication offers practical insights for building resilient, inclusive and future-ready entrepreneurial ecosystems in the digital age.