In Benin and Togo, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of the economy. In Togo, for instance, they account for 99% of registered businesses and generate around 80% of GDP.
While SMEs have demonstrated sustained growth, their performance remains constrained by gaps in entrepreneurial and managerial capabilities. These gaps limit their ability to develop viable business models, access appropriate financing, comply with certification and quality standards, and identify, access, and participate effectively in regional value chains.
In this context, UNCTAD, in collaboration with the Centre de Promotion et d’Encadrement des Petites et Moyennes Entreprises (CePEPE)–Empretec centre Benin, the Ministry of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises and Employment Promotion of Benin, as well as the Ministry responsible for Trade and Quality Control of Togo, , delivers 5-day sub-regional training workshop for agro-processing SMEs from Benin and Togo aims at strengthening the capacity of 24 entrepreneurs (12 from Benin and 12 from Togo) and help them integrate into regional and continental value chains. This training builds on earlier efforts under the UNCTAD project “Strengthening the capacity of African vulnerable countries to adopt policy incentives and innovative instruments for SME participation in regional value chains.”
Key objectives of the workshop include:
- Developing entrepreneurial skills through the Empretec methodology, delivered by certified Empretec trainers.
- Improving understanding of regional value chains and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
- Strengthening compliance with quality standards and certification.
- Facilitating access to finance and investment readiness.
- Promoting institutional support and networking among SMEs.
Participants will also benefit from post-training coaching and networking opportunities.
Eligibility criteria for SMEs:
- Formally registered, with TPME status (for Togo) and MPME attestation (for Benin)
- Small and medium-sized businesses with 10 to 100 employees, and
- Annual turnover of 500 million to 750 million FCFA
- In any of the following agro-processing sectors: fruits, cashew nuts, fish products, juices, edible oils, spices, cosmetics, dairy products, etc. or in any related services: logistics, transportation, packaging, maintenance, storage, quality certification, digital services for SMEs
- Interested/engaged in cross-border trade (ECOWAS countries or AfCFTA)
- Committed to attend all sessions
