Empowerment Program for Women in Handicrafts and Heritage Exports

Project Brief Description of Activities

TRAIN is currently executing a program in Egypt titled the “Empowerment Program for Women in Handicrafts and Heritage Exports.” This initiative represents TRAIN’s commitment to supporting and empowering women entrepreneurs specializing in various sectors, including copperwork, leatherwork, linen and cotton products, natural soap products, silver and stone jewelry, glass products, clothing accessories, stained glass, bamboo products, carpets, and more. The program aims to provide comprehensive training and support to approximately 50 women business owners in different governorates of Egypt, including Cairo, Aswan, Gharbia, New Valley, Alexandria, North Sinai, Fayoum, Giza, Damietta, Sohag, and Ismailia. The main objectives of this initiative include:

1.Economic Empowerment: The program offers business development services and technical support to enhance the marketing and export capabilities of women-owned businesses. Participants receive guidance on participating in local and international exhibitions to expand their market reach.
2.Export Growth: The program focuses on boosting the volume of exports for women entrepreneurs by assisting them in identifying target markets and understanding market requirements. It enhances their skills in project management to improve their export performance.
3.Quality Enhancement: An essential aspect of the program is improving product quality. It begins with the evaluation of participating businesses, followed by support in developing product designs, packaging, brand establishment, and providing managerial and marketing consultations to ensure compliance with international standards.
4.Financial Guidance: The program equips participants with the knowledge needed to finance their projects effectively. It guides them in accessing financial services and support for exporters, including resources such as the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency, Banque Misr, and other relevant financing entities.

1.Economic Empowerment: The program offers business development services and technical support to enhance the marketing and export capabilities of women-owned businesses. Participants receive guidance on participating in local and international exhibitions to expand their market reach.
2.Export Growth: The program focuses on boosting the volume of exports for women entrepreneurs by assisting them in identifying target markets and understanding market requirements. It enhances their skills in project management to improve their export performance.
3.Quality Enhancement: An essential aspect of the program is improving product quality. It begins with the evaluation of participating businesses, followed by support in developing product designs, packaging, brand establishment, and providing managerial and marketing consultations to ensure compliance with international standards.
4.Financial Guidance: The program equips participants with the knowledge needed to finance their projects effectively. It guides them in accessing financial services and support for exporters, including resources such as the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency, Banque Misr, and other relevant financing entities.

Scope of Work

Export Preparation Training and Consultation

Target Audience

50 lady-led enterprises from the handicrafts sector

Client Name/ Partner Agency

The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (MSMEDA)

Location

Egypt

Dates of execution

Oct. 2023 - Present