Against All Odds : Giving Businesses an Edge in Haiti
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) contribute to job creation in all types of economies, but they have a particularly critical role in fragile and conflict-affected states. In Haiti, for example, smaller companies represent the backbone of the economy, employing about 80 percent of the workforce. These SMEs face many challenges in managing their operations and setting up sound business strategies, challenges that can lead to limited growth opportunities and difficulties in accessing credit. Following the devastating earthquake of 2010, which magnified the already difficult circumstances, International Finance Corporation, or IFC supported private sector development by providing SMEs with specific management tools under the Business Edge (BE) program to help with the recovery process. This smart lesson presents lessons learned and insights gained from the Business Edge Haiti Project.
Summary: | Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) contribute to job creation in all types of economies, but they have a particularly critical role in fragile and conflict-affected states. In Haiti, for example, smaller companies represent the backbone of the economy, employing about 80 percent of the workforce. These SMEs face many challenges in managing their operations and setting up sound business strategies, challenges that can lead to limited growth opportunities and difficulties in accessing credit. Following the devastating earthquake of 2010, which magnified the already difficult circumstances, International Finance Corporation, or IFC supported private sector development by providing SMEs with specific management tools under the Business Edge (BE) program to help with the recovery process. This smart lesson presents lessons learned and insights gained from the Business Edge Haiti Project. |
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