Feasibility studies & research
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Feasibility Studies & Research
MEDA-ECDI focused on the supply side of BDS markets developing a framework for evaluating BDS providers in three sub-sectors in Pakistan. The evaluation included a survey of providers in targeted regions and an in-depth assessment of selected providers across those sub-sectors and regions. The BDS market and providers were measured in terms of their contribution to the marketability, sales and long-term sustainability of constituent MSEs (micro to small enterprises) and the MSE products or services. This focus on MSE sales and marketing was based on an earlier MEDA-ECDI study in which MSEs identified increased sales as their first priority.BDS services assessed, based on MEDA-ECDI experience were: input supply, market access, technology development (application of ICTs), and product design and development. Methodologies and tools developed by MEDA-ECDI assisted sub-sector specific and cross-cutting service providers undertake appropriate target-market research and to incorporate target-market findings into the development of results-oriented programs.
Services undertaken covered: Literature review to identify and assess BDS market survey methods and tools; development of survey methodology to catalog BDS providers in a given sub-sector and region; development of an MSE questionnaire to elicit information about BDS services including embedded, informal, piggy-back and commercial services, key informant interviews and focus groups, application of MSE questionnaire amongst women owned and operated MSEs; preparation of concept paper for local funding agencies (e.g., USAID and CIDA in Pakistan) to expand scope of work, identify and catalogue a total of at least 90 BDS providers that serve women owned and operated MSEs through the application of the survey methodology including the MSE questionnaire; information on 90 BDS providers catalogued in user- friendly database format; analysis of BDS provider database to determine which providers participate in an in-depth assessment; development of assessment tool, primarily to determine the effectiveness of BDS providers in accessing and applying target market research to services, and application of assessment tool (key informant interviews).
Women Entrepreneurship Training
Training programs that help women understand how to start and manage small businesses, identify customers, set prices, and promote their products or services.
Skill Development Programs
Practical skill-building sessions designed to help women improve their abilities, gain confidence, and prepare for income-generating opportunities.
Business Planning Guidance
Support for women who need help developing business ideas, planning budgets, understanding markets, and creating simple growth strategies.
Consultancy for Women-Led Projects
Guidance for women-led initiatives, NGOs, and community groups working on entrepreneurship, livelihood development, and women empowerment.
Community Development Training
Training focused on leadership, awareness, participation, and strengthening women's role in local community development.
Mentorship & Capacity Building
Ongoing support that helps women build confidence, improve decision-making, and apply practical knowledge in real-life situations.