Bluesky backs small businesses

29 June 2017, 12:00AM

Samoa is indeed a nation of Small Business. 

The small businesses are the livelihood of locals and with minimal barriers to starting; many operators have a wealth of opportunity to trade and operate in a flexible environment. 

However Small Business in Samoa also comes with its long lists of challenges and competition. 

In a small, dynamic market it’s easy to get lost amongst competition and the motivation to stay in business can be dampened. 

And that’s where organisations like Small Business Enterprise Centre (S.B.E.C.) play a crucial role in assisting the sustainability of small business. 

S.B.E.C assists small business start-ups and their expansion by offering business training; advisory and loan guarantee services that overcome some of the initial barriers to starting and doing business. As an operator for 22 years, it is responsible for over 2000 new businesses and generating employment to over 2500 individuals both in Upolu and Savaii. 

“Bluesky understands the need of this audience and wishes to be part of a growing community that supports Samoa's bigger economy,” a statement from Bluesky said. 

“As the largest Telecommunications provider in Samoa, Bluesky can support this group with technology and applications to grow their businesses. 

“Therefore joining hands with S.B.E.C was a win-win for both organisations. 

This relationship commenced with the involvement of Bluesky participating in the S.B.E.C. Business Awards and will continue the whole year around to support its membership base.” 

Bluesky has contributed $5,000 in cash as a Gold Sponsor of S..B.EC’s Trade Fair in front of the government building and S.B.E.C’s first 2017 Small Business awards ceremony which will be held tonight at Taumeasina. 

Bluesky County Manager, Alex Abraham, said Bluesky is glad to be able to help.

 “We’re pleased to see S.B.E.C initiate the 2017 Business Awards for Industries and small businesses that don’t always get the reward and recognition they deserve,” he said. 

“We want to be a part of what S.B.E.C is doing and we acknowledge the crucial role our small businesses play in the economy of Samoa. 

This is an opportunity for us to also see what we can do better for our small businesses.”   

Bluesky is similarly proud to be the official Telecommunications partner for S.B.E.C as part of this sponsorship. 

S.B.EC.’s long term strategy is to provide incentives to ensure small business operators are motivated enough to remain in operation and aspire to succeed. 

One of these incentives is the first time launch of S.B.E.C’s 2017 Small Business Awards. This awards ceremony tonight will officially recognise the efforts and contribution of small business operators nationwide. 

There are nine Industries involved and 42 finalists across Agriculture, Fisheries, Tourism, Manufacturing, Retail & Trade, Transport, Food & Beverage, Technical Services and Professional Services. 

Best of luck to all finalists and may this be the beginning of a pivotal program which will bring big benefits to Small Business.  

29 June 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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