Around thirty young, vulnerable entrepreneurs supported by the RISE project gathered in Antsirabe for a Business Clinic. The day focused on practical learning, peer exchange, and business improvement. Participants included street food vendors, hairdressers, and bicycle or motorcycle repairers. Despite their different backgrounds, they shared a common goal: improving their small businesses through hands-on support.
The Business Clinic was designed as a practical support initiative aimed at strengthening entrepreneurial skills while encouraging collective learning and experience sharing among participants. The program was delivered in two main phases:
Group Workshop: Participants learned basic small business skills in a structured session.
On-Site Visits: Participants visited each other’s workplaces to observe real-life business situations, discuss challenges, and exchange practical tips.
During the workshop, participants explored key topics such as cleanliness and hygiene, customer service, customer loyalty, and basic savings management. While these practices may seem simple, they are often difficult to apply when resources are limited. For many participants, the sessions offered new perspectives. As one entrepreneur shared, “I never realized that organizing my workshop could help attract more clients…”
Beyond technical skills, the Business Clinic also strengthened motivation and confidence. By the end of the day, several entrepreneurs planned to reorganize their workspaces, improve customer relations, and manage their materials more effectively. The experience demonstrated that small, practical actions can lead to meaningful improvements.
In a context where entrepreneurship is often driven by necessity, initiatives like the Business Clinic go beyond skills training. They provide guidance, encouragement, and a clearer path toward sustainable growth.
