The third action domain regards strengthening entrepreneurs and businesses by ensuring they benefit from adapted services, so they can grow and improve their performance, and thus create social and economic added value as well as jobs.
We focus on improving the match between the offer of financial and non-financial services and the demands of businesses. We do not offer financing, but by supporting initiatives, building capacities and putting parties in touch, we ensure that entrepreneurs on the one hand meet the conditions for receiving financial products by local financing actors, and on the other, that such local financing actors (such as microfinance institutions) increasingly offer adapted solutions. In some cases, we are involved in risk mitigating mechanisms, such as guarantees. We combine this with Business Development Services including mentoring and coaching in management, marketing, sales and HR. Special attention is given to the specific needs of female entrepreneurs.
Furthermore, the Trade for Development Centre provides coaching and direct business development support to fair trade businesses, producers and cooperatives.