SME Business Training and Coaching Loop (SME Loop)
The SME Business Training and Coaching Loop (SME Loop) is an innovative entrepreneurship training platform developed by GIZ and implemented by NEDI in partnership with FRSD ECOWAS.
SME Business Training and Coaching Loop (SME Loop) Project Summary
The SME Business Training and Coaching Loop (SME Loop) is an innovative entrepreneurship training platform developed by GIZ and implemented by NEDI in partnership with FRSD ECOWAS. It addresses three key challenges facing SMEs in Sub-Saharan Africa: inadequate business knowledge, lack of development guidance, and insufficient access to finance. The program features a structured 7-phase model involving training, coaching, and pitching events to empower young entrepreneurs—particularly in LRR, URR, and GBA—with the skills, mentorship, and support required for business growth. The training targeted 150 SMEs across agricultural value chains including horticulture, poultry, and fisheries.
Objectives:
- To promote locally made products and services.
- To empower youth and women entrepreneurs with business management skills.
- To foster peer-to-peer networking and market linkages.
- To provide access to finance and exposure through business pitching.
- To enhance self-employment and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Activities:
- Delivered 2 rounds of intensive 3-day business training.
- Conducted 14 coaching sessions across three phases.
- Organized pitching and graduation ceremonies for SMEs.
- Facilitated business development and mentorship support.
Coverage:
- 150 SMEs participated:
- LRR: 50
- URR: 75
- GBA: 25
Beneficiaries
Target Groups:
- Youth and women entrepreneurs operating in the agriculture value chain.
- Small and medium-sized enterprises with potential for growth.
Number of Beneficiaries:
- 150 SMEs total
- 75 in Horticulture
- 48 in Poultry
- 11 in Fisheries
- 16 in Marketing and Sales
- 100 males, 50 female entrepreneurs
Timeline
- Start Date: 2023
- End Date: 2024
Partners
- National Enterprise Development Initiative (NEDI)
- GIZ – Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit
- FRSD ECOWAS (Fund for Regional Stabilization and Development)
- Local Trainers and Business Coaches
- Youth & Sports Officers across LRR, URR, and GBA
Partners
- Expected Outcomes:
- Strengthened business capacity of SMEs across key agriculture sectors.
- Improved access to markets and finance for trained entrepreneurs.
- Sustainable growth and expansion of local businesses.
- Increased networking and collaboration among SMEs.
Outcomes
- Successfully trained and coached 150 SMEs.
- Held a business pitching and graduation ceremony.
- Build the capacity of 12 NEDI staff, trainers and coaches focused on Growth Potential Entrepreneurs and Financial Literacy
- Strengthened NEDI with 2 motor bikes, equipment’s and office materials to open 2 new regional offices in Lower River Region and Upper River Region
- Enhanced entrepreneurial skills and created potential employment opportunities.
- Promoted local production and self-reliance in rural communities.
Achievements
- Increased youth and women engagement in agricultural value chains.
- Successful delivery of entrepreneurship and vocational training programs.
- Strengthened capacity of local business coaches to support micro-enterprises.
Main Office
+(220) 9966880/7491595
National Enterprise development initiative (NEDI) Jawara Plaza, West Field, KSMD, The Gambia
Nedi Basse Office
+(220) 7315033/320 9906
Basse Youth Centre,
Basketball Lawn (URR)
Head Office
Soma Business Hub
Soma Business Hub
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