The document discusses business opportunities in Botswana and outlines the agenda for a presentation. It introduces the Entrepreneurship Service Centre, which was established in 2006 to promote small and medium enterprises. The centre provides resources like free internet access, meeting rooms, business consultations and training to stimulate entrepreneurship and create jobs. It has seen measurable success in increasing business startups and linkages. However, many entrepreneurs still face challenges like weak business skills, lack of commitment and focus. Overall opportunities remain for entrepreneurs in Botswana.
4. WHO?
Entrepreneurship service centre.
Est. with donation from MCG, UBF, and other
stakeholders Investec, KBL, CEDA, GOB
Started operations in 2006 and official
opening in 2007
Part of a network of branches (10 in RSA).
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5. WHY ?
Stimulate entrepreneurial culture in
Botswana.
To promote and contribute to the growth
of SMEs.
- To create employment
- To alleviate poverty
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6. WHAT ?
A friendly walk in information centre with free internet
- Free internet
- Free use of computers for research and typing
- Free use of meeting rooms
Pre and Post funding mentorship
One-on-one business consultation
Monthly Business Opportunity sessions
Business sector networking opportunities
Regular affordable workshops and training
Relevant business information and resources
Intervention-based business development services
Referrals to credible service providers on a cost sharing arrangement
Financial, accounting and legal services (where it has been arranged
with local partners)
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7. SUCCESSES ?
Measurable success in number of clientele
serviced
Clustering of relevant services
Increased business start ups and growth
Creation of business linkages
Encouraging an entrepreneurial mindset
amongst youth and women
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8. Challenges
for entrepreneurs
Weak skills to set up business processes and
systems
Lack of information seeking skills
Lack of commitment
Lack of focus vs personal vision
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14. Where?
THE BUSINESS PLACE GABORONE BOTSWANA
Tel + (267) 3170700 / Fax + (267) 3170736
Plot 5 Mmaraka House
Station Road Gaborone Botswana
P O Box 502865 Gaborone Botswana
Email: sebonil@thebusinessplace.co.bw
Website: www.thebusinessplace.co.za
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