On April 26, 2024 in Bamako we organized a ceremony full of emotions and celebration, marking the closing of the Growth Support Program for Malian Small and Medium Enterprises (PAC-PME). Initiated in August 2022 with the first cohort in Bamako, the PAC-PME has since extended its impact through four cohorts, including two in Bamako, one in Sikasso and one in Ségou. This ceremony not only celebrates the successes of the program but also officially inaugurates the Alliance Mali Mentors (AMM), a professional network of entrepreneur mentors, representing a new chapter in the continued support of Malian entrepreneurs. PAC-PME will continue to consolidate its results until September of this year.
Funded by the Dutch Enterprise Agency (RVO) and implemented by Fair & Sustainable Consulting in partnership with the Agrivision Sahel Network and 4E Conform, the PAC-PME aimed to stimulate employment opportunities for young Malians while by increasing the turnover of target SMEs, with particular attention paid to the participation of women entrepreneurs. Under the leadership of Malian National Project Manager, Dr Sidiki Konate, and Dutch International Project Manager, Victor van der Linden, the program successfully achieved its objectives through an approach focused on strengthening entrepreneurial skills.
During its implementation, the PAC-PME implemented several key initiatives, including mentoring to strengthen the skills of entrepreneurs, which included the development of a growth strategy per entrepreneur, workshops on being other financial literacy , as well as networking events to facilitate access to investors and business partners. Additionally, the program has played a crucial role in the development of AMM, providing entrepreneurs with ongoing access to a professional network of experienced mentors to guide them throughout their entrepreneurial journey.
The closing ceremony was an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of entrepreneurs and recognize the commitment and dedication of the PAC-PME, Fair & Sustainable Consulting and Agrivision Sahel Network teams. Inspiring speeches from stakeholders and participants highlighted the importance of supporting entrepreneurship and innovation to promote economic and social development in Mali. The Minister of Employment, National Entrepreneurship and Vocational Training, who chaired this ceremony, was happy with the contribution of the project and said he was inspired by the results achieved so far.
In short, the closing ceremony of the PAC-PME and the launch of the AMM mark a significant milestone in Mali’s entrepreneurial landscape. As we celebrate past successes, we look to the future with optimism and determination, recognizing the unlimited potential of Malian entrepreneurs to shape a prosperous future for their country and their community.
For a direct recording of the event please click the link below:
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/K86KEnGHhoWACjuu/?mibextid=qi2Omg
