About Private enterprise programme - zambia
Private Enterprise Programme - Zambia: Empowering Entrepreneurs for Economic Growth
Private Enterprise Programme - Zambia (PEP-Z) is a non-profit organization that aims to promote economic growth and poverty reduction in Zambia by empowering entrepreneurs. PEP-Z provides business development services, access to finance, and market linkages to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in various sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and renewable energy.
PEP-Z was established in 2003 with funding from the UK government's Department for International Development (DFID). Since then, PEP-Z has supported over 10,000 SMEs across the country through its network of Business Development Service Providers (BDSPs), which are local organizations that provide training and mentoring to entrepreneurs.
One of PEP-Z's flagship programs is the Business Linkages Challenge Fund (BLCF), which provides matching grants to SMEs that have innovative ideas for linking with larger firms or international markets. The BLCF has supported over 100 partnerships between SMEs and larger companies since its inception in 2010.
Another key program of PEP-Z is the Women's Entrepreneurship Access Program (WEAP), which focuses on supporting women-led businesses through training, mentoring, and access to finance. WEAP has helped over 2,000 women entrepreneurs across Zambia since it was launched in 2014.
PEP-Z also works closely with financial institutions such as banks and microfinance institutions to increase access to finance for SMEs. Through its Financial Sector Deepening Trust (FSDT) program, PEP-Z supports initiatives that promote financial inclusion and innovation in the financial sector.
In addition to its core programs, PEP-Z also conducts research on entrepreneurship development issues in Zambia. Its research reports provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by SMEs in accessing finance or expanding their businesses.
Overall, Private Enterprise Programme - Zambia plays a crucial role in promoting economic growth and poverty reduction in Zambia by empowering entrepreneurs. Its innovative programs and partnerships have helped thousands of SMEs to grow their businesses, create jobs, and contribute to the country's development.
If you are an entrepreneur in Zambia looking for support to start or grow your business, PEP-Z is the right partner for you. Visit pepzambia.com to learn more about their programs and services.