The tools developed by the ILO to promote micro and small enterprises can be targeted to meet the needs of the poorest. ILO training courses on how to start and improve a small business attract many thousands of poor people with aspirations and good ideas for a business of their own. Many have already developed some kind of income-generating activity out of pure necessity for survival. Here, our tools and guidance turn their ingenuity and commitment into entrepreneurship and sound management. For example, home-based food processing activities become small restaurants on the roadside, carpenter shops expand their markets with new products, and hairdressers start small beauty salons. In response to new demands from community groups wanting to improve their living conditions, targeted support helps them to set up sustainable waste collection enterprises or drinking water kiosks. These community-based enterprises are a source of new job opportunities for youth and women with low skill levels. In partnership with local governments, they provide sustainable environmental services which are accessible and affordable for the poor. Blended into the training approach are concerns for job quality, productivity, organization and dialogue – especially when small enterprises start engaging more workers.
To learn more about this author, visit International Labour Organization's Website.
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