Role Summary:

The Entrepreneurship Ecosystem and MSME Development Expert will focus on creating an enabling environment for entrepreneurship and supporting the growth and sustainability of MSMEs within the project’s target communities. This individual will work closely with stakeholders to identify barriers to entrepreneurship, develop solutions, and facilitate access to business support services and financing opportunities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct assessment of the entrepreneurship ecosystem within project areas, including regulatory frameworks, market dynamics, and support services available to MSMEs.
• Identify barriers to entrepreneurship and MSME development, such as access to finance, market linkages, business development services, and skills training.
• Develop strategies and interventions to address identified barriers and create an enabling environment for entrepreneurship and MSME growth.
• Provide technical assistance and capacity building support to MSMEs, including business planning, financial management, marketing, and access to finance.
• Facilitate linkages between MSMEs, financial institutions, market actors, and support organizations to foster collaboration and innovation.
• Promote the adoption of technology and innovation among MSMEs to improve productivity and competitiveness.
• Monitor and evaluate the impact of entrepreneurship development interventions, identifying lessons learned and best practices.
• Facilitate access to business support services, including training, mentoring, technical assistance, and networking opportunities, for aspiring and existing entrepreneurs.
• Strengthen partnerships with financial institutions, government agencies, business associations, and other stakeholders to promote MSME-friendly policies and initiatives.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in business administration, economics, entrepreneurship, or related field.
• Minimum of 7 years experience in entrepreneurship development and MSME support.
• Knowledge of entrepreneurship ecosystem dynamics, including regulatory frameworks, market structures, and support services available to MSMEs.
• Proven ability to design and implement innovative solutions to promote entrepreneurship and MSME growth, including access to finance, market linkages, and business development services.
• Strong networking and partnership-building skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders to achieve common goals.
• Knowledge of finance, marketing, and value chain development.
• Familiarity with technology and innovation trends in agriculture.