ME & SME Development Programmes

The small business sector plays a vital and key role in stimulating economic activity, but the training provision and support for many of those wishing to develop or expand their own business ventures is often inadequate - even in developed economies. All world governments are aware of the need to develop the abilities of those in the ME and SME sectors, but development is often restricted due to a lack of resources for the transfer of the appropriate intellectual capital.

The Institute’s Centre for Social & Economic Development offers a one-week specialist training programme for experienced professionals who have a responsibility for training and developing the skills and knowledge of potential entrepreneurs.

This ‘Train the Trainer’ programme teaches world-class best practice in the use of business planning for the establishment, development and management of start-up ventures; and incorporates the lessons learnt by other entrepreneurs in developed, developing, transitional and emerging economies.

On successful completion of the programme, participants are registered as ICM Certified Trainers and provided with the necessary courseware and training materials to enable them to move immediately into their training role in their home environments. Consultants and trainers wishing to undertake the programme should typically be over 30 years of age, hold a recognised and relevant degree or professional business qualification, and have at least five years’ practical experience in ME and SME development. The medium of instruction is English and participants must have a good command, written and spoken, of the English language and be computer-literate. Additional two-week training modules are available for those who have no experience as trainers.