KrishalaPartnership and CollaborationSustainability
In September 2024, Aloi Pvt. Ltd in partnership with UNDP conducted three crucial training programs across different regions, focusing on “Business Plan Development, Financial Management, and Green Financing” for Community Forest User Groups (CFUGs) in Makwanpur. This is one of the UNDP projects in Nepal 2024. The training was hosted in Chuchekhola, Piple Pokhara, and Bungdal, and provided valuable insights and hands-on learning experiences aimed at strengthening local entrepreneurship and promoting sustainable forest-based businesses.
1. Chuchekhola CFUG Training (Sept 25-27, 2024)
Our first training took place in the scenic village of Chuchekhola, where 34 participants gathered for three days of intensive learning. The focus was on marketing strategies, forest regulations, branding, and business planning.
Key Highlights:
– Marketing & Branding: Participants learned traditional and digital marketing techniques and were encouraged to role-play as business owners of forest-based products like medicinal herbs and eco-tourism.
– Business Plan Development: Groups worked on drafting comprehensive business plans, focusing on production costs and marketing strategies.
– Financial Management: On the final day, participants studied into enterprise accounting, tax regulations, and financial forecasting, equipping them with tools for future growth.
2. Piple Pokhara CFUG Training (Sept 10-12, 2024)
In Piple Pokhara, we welcomed 35 participants for another three-day training program that aimed to empower local forest-based enterprises. The focus was similar to Chuchekhola, with a strong emphasis on business plan development.
Key Highlights:
– Forest Regulations & Marketing: Participants explored Federal Forest Regulations and learned the importance of branding in both local and international markets.
– Hands-on Business Planning: Groups worked on product-specific plans, creating strategies for items like bamboo combs and Nepal map keychains.
– Financial Planning: Practical sessions on investment, expenditure planning, and profit-loss analysis fostered collaborative learning.
3. Bungdal CFUG Training (Sept 14-16, 2024)
The final leg of our training journey took place in Bungdal, with 35 eager participants. Despite weather and logistical challenges, the training successfully covered essential aspects of business planning and financial management.
Key Highlights:
– Business Planning & Cost Analysis: Participants created business plans for products like turmeric powder and compost manure. A key takeaway was the importance of accurate cost analysis in ensuring sustainable business growth.
– Market Pitch Practices: On the last day, participants practiced pitching their business ideas, with a focus on effective branding and marketing strategies.
– Packaging & Branding: Emphasis was placed on how effective packaging and unique branding can make products stand out in competitive markets.
Conclusion
Across all three regions, the training sessions were well-received, with participants showing great interest in learning and applying business and financial management skills. While the core objective business plan development was successfully achieved. We are happy to work alongside UNDP projects in Nepal 2024.
The enthusiasm and commitment demonstrated by the CFUGs highlight the importance of continued support for these communities. We look forward to organizing more comprehensive training programs to further empower these forest-based enterprises.
