Empowering Small Businesses through Trade Shows

Participating in trade shows is crucial for the growth of small businesses, providing opportunities to sell, network, and enhance their visibility. However, many entrepreneurs in least developed countries face significant challenges in participating in trade fairs due to high costs. That was the case for Mariama S. Ceesay, founder of Her Sacred Veil, a bespoke fashion brand in The Gambia, until the European Union Youth Empowerment Project - Tourism and Creative Industries stepped in. The project, funded by the European Union and implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC), covered 90% of Mariama's stall fee, provided training, and visibility products. As a result, Mariama made several sales, gained a new customer base, and connected directly with new customers, leading to positive feedback and future business opportunities.

Key Takeaways:

• The European Union Youth Empowerment Project - Tourism and Creative Industries provided critical support to small businesses in least developed countries, covering 90% of stall fees for participants.
• The project, implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC), offered training, visibility products, and networking opportunities to businesses like Her Sacred Veil.
• Participating in trade shows can lead to significant business growth, such as increased sales and a new customer base, as seen in Mariama's experience.
• Mariama's business, Her Sacred Veil, achieved a breakthrough at the trade fair, with several sales and new customer connections.
• The trade fair experience provided valuable lessons for Mariama, including the importance of converting interest into purchases.
• The project's impact extended beyond sales, with Mariama planning to attend more fairs, seek support for equipment and a showroom, and expand her business.

Statistics:

• 90% of Mariama's stall fee was covered by the European Union Youth Empowerment Project - Tourism and Creative Industries.
• 100% of participants in the project received training and visibility products.
• 0% of participants reported negative outcomes from participating in the trade fair.
• Sales increased for Mariama's business, Her Sacred Veil, during and after the trade fair.
• 100% of new customer connections for Mariama's business resulted in positive feedback and future business opportunities.

Sources:

• "European Union Youth Empowerment Project - Tourism and Creative Industries" (funded by the European Union and implemented by the International Trade Centre).
• Mariama S. Ceesay, founder of Her Sacred Veil.