Ingenuity and innovation for local business

A young entrepreneur is among the beneficiaries of PAMECAS (Programme d'Appui aux Mutuelles d'Épargne et de Crédit au Sénégal), whose mission is to promote the economic and social well-being of their members and communities.

In Kaolack, Senegal, some thirty local business advisers-one third of them women-are learning how to build a business from concept to launch. In a project that CIDA supports through Service d'aide aux jeunes entreprises de Montréal, local businesspeople get management training, and they in turn act as mentors to others in the community who want to go into business.

The training is for employees of business and social organizations who want to become specialists in all aspects of business. They are provided with the tools that will allow them to help entrepreneurs turn their business concepts into reality and give them a competitive advantage. These tools include managing grants, establishing and monitoring business objectives and goals, as well as developing and promoting businesses. Participants developed greater confidence in their own talents and abilities, and gained an increased respect for their colleagues. In some cases, they were promoted in their jobs.