Supporting Entrepreneurs in Sylhet: LightCastle Partners with iDE

LightCastle Partners conducted an entrepreneurship scale-up program implemented by International Development Enterprise (iDE) and funded by Chevron & Embassy of Switzerland. Four batches of SME entrepreneurs will receive training as part of the “Enterprise Development Program – Uddokta”; as of now, LightCastle partners have conducted two accelerator programs in Shantiganj and Moulvibazar, respectively. In the upcoming weeks, two further accelerator programs will be held in Komolganj and Sunamganj.

The first accelerator program was held from the 24th to the 26th of September in Shantiganj and the second one was held from the 27th to the 29th of September in Moulvibazar. The consecutive 3-day training programs consisted of the top 76 entrepreneurs from the regions respectively. The program’s primary objective was to provide these budding entrepreneurs with business development support and investment readiness training. Senior Business consultant Omar Farhan Khan along with Field Coordinator Nazmul Kabir Al-Mehmud and Business Analyst John Gomes conducted the sessions.

*LightCastle Field Coordinator, Nazmul Kabir Al-Mehmud, conducting a session at the training workshop*

The sessions were based on the LightCastle Partners SME curriculum module, which included learning how to analyze and comprehend a business and the pillars of entrepreneurship, explore a lean business model, comprehend the value of marketing and branding, construct a financial statement and understand SME financing, and how to apply for Microfinance Institution (MFI) loans, likewise have a general understanding of digital literacy and how digital marketing can help expand their businesses.

Participants in the Training Workshop of iDE Uddokta Program in Sylhet — *Participants in the Training Workshop*

These in-depth lectures aided these entrepreneurs in their understanding of various different aspects of maintaining a business. From ideation to execution, maintaining financial records to be able to apply for MFI loans. Also, sessions on marketing for boosting sales and teaching them the art of pitching so they can better present their ideas to potential financiers and investors.

*A Female Entrepreneur pitching at the Investment Readiness Workshop*

On the 26th & 29th of September, The investment readiness and demo day events took place. Where the entrepreneurs pitched their business ideas to relevant MFI Industry experts.