Small businesses take big strides in Apia

By Ilia L. Likou 29 June 2017, 12:00AM

The 2017 Small Business Enterprise Centre (S.B.E.C.). Trade Fair was officially opened yesterday morning in front of the government building.

The two day event will culminate with the inaugural S.B.E.C Awards programme tonight at Taumeasina Island Resort.

More than 100 small businesses from all over the country displayed a wide range of products supported by S.B.E.C’s Small Business Guarantee Scheme at the centre of Apia yesterday.

New Zealand High Commissioner, David Nicholson, pointed out that New Zealand’s vision in working with S.B.E.C. is to boost productivity for Samoan business people.

“The New Zealand Aid programme has supported S.B.E.C. to develop the private sector in Samoa and enhance trade opportunities since it was established in 1994,” Mr. Nicholson said.

“There is also a proposal for further New Zealand support currently underway, which will allow S.B.E.C. to continue focusing on facilitating real results for business development while increasing their own organisational sustainability.

“Together we have the recipe to keep delivering and developing a strong, cohesive and inspired small business private sector with big capacity to contribute to the Samoan economy.”

S.B.E.C. has set up over 2,000 new Samoan businesses across Upolu and Savai’i and generated employment opportunities for over 2,500 people.

A 61-year-old mother, Fa’aaloalo Samulu from Salamumu believes ‘if there’s a will there’s a way.’

“I started off small,” she said. “As of today; I sell different types of handicrafts, mats and hats and I am so thankful for S.B.E.C. in hosting this two day event because it gives us the opportunity to make more than we can usually make.

“It’s not an easy road to go through and there are challenges along the way but when you believe in yourself, everything will fall into place

 “To be honest, we have lots of opportunities at S.B.E.C.’s Small Business Guarantee Scheme for everyone to join in to create small businesses and make a profit for our families.”

Minister of Public Enterprises, Lautafi Fio Purcell, opened the Show yesterday.

S.B.E.C’s vision is to drive small business growth and development in Samoa.

Schools were also invited to witness the Trade Fair yesterday.

The S.B.E.C Model for business development includes business training, business advisory; facilitate access to finance and business nurturing and support. 

This model has made S.B.E.C a unique set up for an organization mandated to support and grow small businesses in Samoa.

By Ilia L. Likou 29 June 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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