Simply Exponential rolls out ILO programme to strengthen SME support

Simply Exponential Consult Limited has rolled out the International Labour Organization’s Start and Improve Your Business (ILO SIYB) Train-the-Trainer (TOT) Programme in Lagos and Abuja, aimed at strengthening the capacity of professionals supporting small and growing businesses across Nigeria.

Morounfayo Williams, founder and managing partner of Simply Exponential Consult and an ILO-certified master trainer, disclosed this at a press conference in Lagos over the weekend.

Williams said the two-week hybrid certification programme was designed to build the capacity of professionals who support entrepreneurs and small businesses, using practical and standardised training packages developed by the ILO.

According to her, the ILO SIYB programme has been deployed in more than 90 countries and provides practical training packages to help aspiring entrepreneurs generate viable business ideas, start formal enterprises and improve existing businesses.

She said Simply Exponential Consult would deliver the Train-the-Trainer course from September 21 to October 5, followed by a 30-day implementation and mentoring phase during which trainees would step down the training to other participants and be observed and supported before certification.

Williams said the programme features three core training packages: Generate Your Business Idea (GYBI), Start Your Business (SYB) and Improve Your Business (IYB).

The programme also includes hands-on learning tools such as a business simulation game, role plays, “life cards” and record-keeping exercises, as well as 12 participant manuals covering business planning, marketing, adult learning and trainer guides.

She said the combination of the intensive classroom and hybrid phase with the subsequent 30-day implementation and supervision period was designed to ensure quality and create a multiplier effect in the delivery of business support across the country.

Certification, she added, would only be awarded after successful step-down training and observation to ensure that participating trainers meet international standards.

The programme is targeted at business development service providers, SME Desk Officers of financial institutions, managers of enterprise development organisations and microfinance institutions, trainers involved in entrepreneurship education and other professionals supporting small and medium-sized enterprises.

Williams said the training would equip participants with methodologies to help entrepreneurs separate personal and business finances, prepare viable business plans and build sustainable enterprises.

She described the programme as an opportunity to create a multiplier effect through a pool of certified trainers who can deliver standardised and practical business support to entrepreneurs across Nigeria.

The early-bird registration fee is N765,000 and is available until September 14, while the standard fee is N850,000. Groups of three or more participants are eligible for a discounted fee of N688,500 per person.

Also speaking, the Director-General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, affirmed private-sector support for initiatives that strengthen small businesses, create jobs and contribute to national prosperity.

Oyerinde, who was represented by Adenike Adebayo-Ajala, said structured business training covering costing, record-keeping, access to finance and market linkages was essential for business survival and growth in Nigeria’s challenging economic environment.

Simply Exponential Consult Limited is a capacity-building firm focused on entrepreneurship development, digital skills, business training and consultancy. The organisation partners with national and international stakeholders to deliver standardised, practical training programmes aimed at strengthening small and growing businesses.

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