USAID, MOIC, and LNCCI Conclude ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network Laos Program
Vientiane Capital, May 30, 2023 – The Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MOIC), the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI), and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) concluded the ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) Laos Program.
AMEN is a modules-based training program designed for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and facilitated by accredited mentors. First piloted in Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines in 2019, it is now implemented as an ASEAN-wide program in 2023. A total of 27 promising MSMEs completed the 12-week program, which covered modules such as marketing, financial management, business strategy, and innovation. The MSMEs had the opportunity to connect with other entrepreneurs, share best practices, and learn from mentors with extensive experience in their respective fields. Additionally, these MSMEs received a wide range of tools and techniques to improve their business operations, including access to finance, market analysis, and branding.
During the closing ceremony, Mr. Bounthueng Douangsavanh, Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce, thanked USAID for supporting MSMEs’ knowledge and skills to thrive in the regional economy, highlighting the program’s potential to boost competitiveness.
Mr. Cullen Hughes, USAID’s Economic Growth, Education and Energy Officer, highlighted the strong and expanding U.S.-Laos economic cooperation ties, stating that: “Lao PDR has abundant entrepreneurial potential. USAID is proud to support Lao MSMEs and this mentorship program. The successful completion of the AMEN Laos program is a testament to USAID’s commitment to supporting the Lao Government, and LNCCI in their efforts to promote economic growth and support MSMEs.”
USAID, through the Laos Business Environment Project, assists the Government in improving the environment for investment and trade and enhancing the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises.
