Small entrepreneurs in developing countries start their own business with a high handicap

Help to improve the handicap of these SMEs:
The BPN seminars reduce the handicap of small entrepreneurs and promote sustainable economic development in the countries.

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Restaurant

Yasser S.
Nicaragua / Leon

Yasser combines an entrepreneurial spirit with a down-to-earth professional approach. After graduating in 2013, the trained agricultural technician gained a wide range of experience as a consultant - including internationally, for example in Ecuador. But entrepreneurship is in his blood, inspired by his mother, who was also in business. In 2021, he took a decisive step: with the aim of improving his income and combining his passion with entrepreneurial thinking, he founded a fish restaurant in León.

Thanks to his knowledge of the coastal region and close contacts with fishermen, Yasser can buy fresh fish and seafood directly and cheaply - a clear advantage over his competitors. His restaurant is lovingly designed in the style of a beach bar and conveys a maritime experience even in the city.

Clothing

Falonne R.
Rwanda / Kigali

Falonne, an ambitious entrepreneur with a business background and over 5 years of experience in clothing manufacturing, has turned her passion for fashion into a thriving tailoring and fashion business. She was inspired by her mother, who made a living for the family as a seamstress. This early influence laid the foundation for her flair for high-quality craftsmanship and personal style.

Travel Agency

Aisuluu W.
Kyrgyzstan / Bishkek

Aisuluu has several years of experience in the tourism industry and in hosting international guests. Through her studies in Chinese language and literature, as well as her practical experience as a tour guide, she has developed extensive language skills, intercultural competencies, and a good understanding of the needs of foreign travelers.

As part of her collaboration with Chinese companies, she helped clients organize trips, hotel reservations, and transportation. In the process, she recognized a growing demand for professionally organized and customized tours. This experience led to the idea of starting her own tourism company.

In 2019, she founded a travel company together with partners. The first season went well before the COVID-19 pandemic severely limited business operations. Despite this challenge, Aisuluu stayed committed to her business idea, continued to work as a tour guide, and gained additional experience. Since 2023, she has been actively welcoming international guests again and is continually expanding her offerings.

Aisuluu stands out for her customer focus, flexibility, and intercultural competence. She understands both the expectations of international travelers and the cultural nuances of her home country. This enables her to create personalized and authentic travel experiences.

With support from the BPN program, she hopes to structure her business more professionally, strengthen her management skills, and establish clear workflows. Another priority is expanding the team and improving the distribution of tasks. Her long-term goal is to build a financially stable and sustainable tourism business that supports local communities, creates jobs, and contributes to the development of responsible tourism.

... How big is your handicap?

Small entrepreneurs in developing countries start their own business with a high handicap. Help to improve the handicap of these SMEs!

Willi Helbling CEO of the BPN Foundation / Handicap 34.5

Help to improve the handicap of these SMEs: BPN seminars reduce the handicap of small entrepreneurs and promote sustainable economic development in the countries.