Increasing Sales for Micro-Enterprises in Zacatecas

Launched in August 2016, the Entrepreneurship and Business Development program, a partnership between Newmont and TechnoServe Mexico, is working to create inclusive economic growth in the communities surrounding the Newmont Minera Peñasquito (MP) mining operation in Zacatecas, Mexico.

TechnoServe is providing business support tailored to the specific needs of local entrepreneurs, providing the skills, knowledge and tools they need to build successful businesses, develop strong markets, and create income and jobs throughout these communities. So far, the program has supported 128 projects and 312 entrepreneurs, where 52% of participants were women, and 10 workshops have been replicated in communities nearby. During the lifespan of the program, participants’ sales have increased nearly four times.

The program’s methodology is based around the implementation of best practices in business development, covering general themes on entrepreneurship, business planning, finance, marketing, accounting, and production, among others key skills. Along with these workshops, each beneficiary works with a business advisor (BA), who provides tailored consultancy services and customized mentoring.