The SARTHEE-programme will support Business Development Services (BDS) providers to develop high quality, effective business counselling services for pro-poor Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs).

Why business counselling?

Effective Business Counselling leads to increased client satisfaction and stronger business performance. Through effective Business Counselling, MSEs will be able to understand better the underlying causes of why their business is not performing to its optimum and as a result address its real needs.

Workshop 1 (July 2006) and 2 (November 2006)

These two 5 day workshops are designed for 24 BDS providers from 12 different organisations.  Modules will include:

• Market Access            
• Working more effectively with clients
• Business Counselling techniques to build successful client relationships

Mentoring and Coursework

Mentors selected by IRFT and Traidcraft will be available between the workshops to support participants in the implementation of their learning. After each workshop, participants will practice their new skills on their MSE clients, with the support of these mentors.

European visit  (early 2007)

One participant from each organisation will visit Germany (subject to grant of visa). This will include activities such as visits to local Institutions, Chambers of Commerce, SMEs, and if possible a Trade Fair.  

Workshop 3 (early 2007)

Feedback and launch of Indian network

This two-day workshop will enable participants to feedback to each other on the European visit and launch the Indian network.

Workshop 4 and 5 (early 2007)

Training of Trainers

The participant who visited Germany will attend two workshops on ‘Training of Trainers’.  This will include:

• Adult learning        
• Methodology
• Training skills    
• Developing modules and content