Small enterprise development program for Ecuador : strategy paper

sectoral strategy outlined. After describing the sector"s potential contribution to economic development and the broad objectives of SSE promotion, the report focuses on two areas: (1) the current economic setting for SSE"s (i.e., the labor market and macroeconomic, trade, fiscal, and other government policies); and (2) the extent to which credit, technical assistance, training, and information and research services, as well as services that facilitate SSE cooperation in business and lobbying activities, are available to meet the specific needs of the artisanal, small merchant, and small industry SSE subsectors. General findings are that sector development requires a supportive business environment along with the promotion of entrepreneurial skills and the provision of central services. Specific needs are for systematically applied rules and regulations, complementarity between the public and private sectors, and active promotion of entrepreneurship. A comprehensive strategy addressing these needs is outlined. Included are recommendations regarding economic policy, representational networks, service organizations, credit systems, technical assistance, and support for women"s SSE"s.