an Eldis Resource
Connecting small enterprises in ways that enhance the lives of forest-dependent people
How can small forest enterprises get better connected?
Authors:
D. Macqueen
Publisher:
Unasylva, FAO, 2007
Small and medium forest enterprises are the norm in many developing countries. They have much to offer in terms of poverty reduction. But they are often isolated from structures that might help them make that contribution - from markets, financial and business development service providers, and policy processes. This article suggests how to connect small forest enterprises, not only to each other through associations, but also more broadly - to decision-makers, service providers and markets.
The author identifies some key needs for improved coordination between small forest enterprises:
- better representation for small forest enterprises in decision-making - inclusion in policy formation and clearer rules governing association
- stronger networks that link small forest enterprises with financial and business development services - finding innovative ways to make such networks functional and sustainable
- ways of distinguishing, and increasing the returns from, responsible small forest enterprises in the market - new initiatives are needed to build market access for small forest enterprises.
