Laos-Japan Human Resource Development Institute (LJI) within the National University of Laos, supported by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), ASEAN Japan Center, Japanese External Trade Organization (JETRO) Vientiane Office, Department of SME Promotion (DOSMEP), and Ministry of Technology and Communications (MTC), launched the “LJI SUSU Scale-Up Batch 2”, under the Business Development Programme in Vientiane on July 14.
“LJI SUSU Scale-Up, introduced by LJI, is one of the unique programmes launched in recent years with JICA’s assistance in response to the changing needs of the business community,” said Mr. Toshio Nagase, Chief Representative of JICA Laos Office.
LJI SUSU Scale-Up was designed to accelerate the growth of participating companies and to improve the Lao society. The project welcomes young entrepreneurs, SMEs, and new businesses from large corporations that are trying to implement innovative business models through trial and error.
Dr. Phonekeo Chanthamaly, Director of LJI, explained that SUSU is derived from the word Start-up and Scale-up. Pronunciation of “SUSU” means “fight” in the Lao language, reflecting the efforts by the Lao businesses under difficult and rapidly changing situations in the post-COVID time.
“By supporting the efforts of these Lao companies, LJI SUSU aims to create model companies that promote “Made in Laos” products and services in Laos and foreign markets, and those which embody innovative business initiatives that solve social issues,” he said.
Financial
Opportunities for financing and investment will be offered through pitch events and business meetings, such as Business Plan Competition. Supported by experts, the participants will brush up the documents that can be used to access finance.
Networking and Information
Networking and learning opportunities with successful entrepreneurs and pioneers, along with interaction with other participants, are offered to accelerate learning and raise motivation among the participants. With the support of experts, the participants will build and expand their network with potential business partners, including investors.
Mini-lectures and Mentoring
Practical advice and guidance from experts in multiple fields will be provided. Under the guidance of experts, the participants will create innovative business models and convincing pitch documents.
LJI SUSU Scale-Up batch 2 launching event was attended by Dr. Oudom Phonekhamphx, President of the National University of Laos, Dr. Bounpheng Sibounheung, Director General of Department of Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion, Mr. Yasushi Kikuchi, General Director of Japanese External Trade Organization (JETRO) Vientiane office.
The event was attended with the startup and SMEs eco-system players such as Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, SME Service Centre, Lao ICT Commerce Association (LICA), Lao SME Association, commercial banks, governmental officials, and donor organizations.
Any companies, young entrepreneurs, young people, students who are interested in taking part in LJI SUSU are encouraged to follow the registration guidance and related activity update at LJI’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/LJILaos.
Source: Lao News Agency