These programs are implemented in collaboration with key stakeholders to ensure effective training delivery and sustainable impact across the country.

In 2017, then known as the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC), SME Corporation through its network partner Jabez Business Services hosted a two-week Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) training in Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province. Jabez Business Services, led by Master Trainer Mrs. Linda Voyorite, is a key partner in MSME development for the highlands region particularly in Eastern Highlands Province.

One of the most remarkable participants in this training was Mr. Simon Moki, a visually impaired entrepreneur from Kama village. At the time, Mr. Moki was already operating a small trade store, which he had started in December 2016, but he faced numerous challenges in managing and sustaining it. Upon being invited by Mrs. Voyorite, Simon did not hesitate to register for the program.

The two-week SIYB training transformed Simon’s approach to business. “Mi amamas tru long dispela training,” he shared. “Nau mi save long mekim ol mak up long olgeta item blong mi long store, lukluk long ol expense, how long mekim profit na planti narapela samting long sait blong ronim bisnis.” With the support of his wife, who helps him run the store, Simon gained practical skills in stock control, expense tracking, profit-making, and overall business management.

One key takeaway from the training was the importance of formalizing a business and maintaining proper banking practices. After the training, Simon registered his business under the name Silda Trading and opened a business account with Bank South Pacific. He now employs family members to assist with daily operations. “Maski mi gat dispela bagarap long bodi, dispela ino stopim mi long mekim wok olsem ol narapela manmeri,” Simon proudly stated.

In a significant milestone last month, Simon received a K10, 000 Business Support Grant facilitated by SME Corporation’s Women, Youth and Disability Support Desk, in partnership with Business Link Pacific (BLP). This support further strengthened his business capacity. “Mi tok tenkiu long BLP na SME Corporation long halivim bisnis blong mi. Em fes taim long mi kisim kain halivim olsem,” Simon expressed gratefully.

Simon’s story is not just a testament to personal determination, but also an inspiring call to action for others. “Noken lukluk long disability blong yu,” he says. “Yu mas save olsem yu gat ability or potential we yu ken mekim samting olsem ol narapela manmeri.”