USAID-Tijara Provincial Economic Growth Program Business Development Services Breakout Sessions

The program's objectives include equipping participants with the skills to create a work plan and prepare proposals for activities funded by USAID-Tijara. A clear understanding of developing a work plan and its components is essential for the success of the program. The work plan should be aligned with the overall vision and mission of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). The mission statement defines the fundamental purpose of the SBDC, while the vision statement outlines what the SBDC wants to achieve in the future. To define a vision and mission statement, two key questions are posed: "What aspirations does the SBDC have for Iraq or its community?" and "What can the SBDC do or contribute to fulfill those aspirations?" The answers to these questions form the basis of the vision and mission statements, respectively. The vision statement should describe why achieving the mission is important, while the mission statement outlines what the SBDC can achieve itself. The annual work plan includes SMART objectives that work towards completing the SBDC's mission. SMART objectives are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Each work plan activity should help complete a mission that works towards fulfilling the long-term vision of the SBDC. A work plan should be for a period of one year and updated monthly. It should be written in enough detail to provide a clear picture of the planned activities, resources required, and connection to the annual budget. To prepare the annual work plan, a list of all activities and resources needed to accomplish each objective should be made, along with cost estimates and responsible personnel. Key considerations when developing a work plan include ensuring that objectives are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound. The work plan should also be detailed enough to provide a clear picture of the planned activities, resources required, and connection to the annual budget.