The last two decades have witnessed the recognition and emergence of women as active contributors to the growth and development of a nation. Women Entrepreneurship development activities are indispensable in preparing women for change enabling them to adjust in the present era when the process of globalization, liberalization and privatization is gaining momentum. Thus, a need has emerged to cater to this neglected sector by providing them with business opportunities and other support skills, especially in the micro and small enterprises sector. The positive role-played by Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the fight against unemployment and poverty is well recognized in most countries.
With globalization and increasing competition, the need has been felt to provide better management techniques, new technologies and novel approaches for developing micro and small businesses through well designed Business Development Services(BDS) initiatives.
Some problems and constraints that women encounter are cultural and traditional barriers, inadequate skills, low productivity and poor returns on investment, which hamper their chances of growth and success. Effective Business Development Services can play a significant role in women entrepreneurs’ success and growth. Through training, women develop self-confidence, leadership skills and self-esteem and begin recognizing their own contribution to the society and beyond
The non-financial services needed for enterprises at various stages of their existence, from start-up to growth, are termed as Business Development Services (BDS). It refers to the provision of information, knowledge, skills and advice on various aspects of an enterprise. BDS can be defined as a conscious action performed by the BDS provider for the benefit of the receiver.ICECD, with the support of International Labour Organization (ILO) under the Ireland Aid Partnership Programme, implemented a pilot project on the demand and supply of Business Development Services (BDS), in one of the most, entrepreneurially advanced states of Gujarat, in India. The aim was to identify the needs for capacity building of BDS providers for effective delivery of BDS to potential and existing women entrepreneurs.
The workshop included discussions and deliberations between participants and experts, presentations of innovative proposals by participants, field visits, and practical technical inputs on various aspects of BDS.
