WYG

The overall objective of the SME Integrated Support Programme is to help the Government of Lebanon in developing and implementing an integrated approach linking policy formulation, training, start-up and existing SMEs.

The project further aims at reinforcing access to long-term financing of SMEs and start-up businesses. Within the framework of this project, the Contractor is assisting the Ministry of Economy and Trade (MoET) in developing its long-term capacity to address the needs of the SME sector. The Contract will support the MoET in the process of creating a supportive framework for SME growth. It will aim at supporting the MoET in establishing the various coordination mechanisms to enable an effective implementation of a new policy and legal framework combined with a range of incentives for both business start-ups and existing companies in Lebanon.

IMC is providing technical support and coordination inputs to the MoET in the development of a national network of business development services. The technical assistance will help the MoET in coordinating the development of a national network of quality business support services and training. The network will follow business incubation principles. It will target existing and start-up entrepreneurs.

The IMC team is providing guidance to the MoET in mentoring and supporting existing and newly-established SME business development centres. This objective will in turn help targeted entrepreneurs to modernise and achieve the desired competitive gains.