Background
Entrepreneurship is an important avenue for economic self-sufficiency for individuals around the world. In developing countries, where there are fewer opportunities for well-paid employment, entrepreneurship may be the only way that most individuals can rise above poverty. In addition to providing opportunities for visionary entrepreneurs, small businesses created in this way become important drivers for economic and social growth in these communities: providing jobs, capital, hope, and improving the economic outlook and future for many.
The Challenge
Governments and NGOs offer financial support mechanisms for start-ups in some areas, but long-term success for the most promising of these businesses require more than start-up funding. As with promising entrepreneurial businesses anywhere in the world, success requires market knowledge and access, effective product marketing, and, of course, strong business strategies and practices. It’s been proven that these intangibles can be nurtured when barriers are removed and fledgling entrepreneurs are directly connected with established business professionals, who share the knowledge and skills necessary for long-term business success, while serving as mentors and role models.
Trestle Group Foundation
Developed by a dynamic team of entrepreneurs and international business professionals, Trestle Group Foundation is an innovative, change-provoking, nonprofit organization dedicated to creating and expanding sustainable economic opportunities in developing countries by removing barriers and providing direct support to emerging entrepreneurs.