Given the central role that small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play in Africa’s social and economic development, the African Development Foundation places a premium on strengthening and expanding the capacity of local entrepreneurs. ADF is striving to become America’s small business engine for Africa, and it invests nearly two-thirds of its grant portfolio in micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprise development.

Enterprise development is especially important to the millions of African men, women and youth who support themselves through informal marketing ventures but lack education and skills to take advantage of opportunities in the formal sector.

ADF helps small entrepreneurs succeed by providing funding for capital, technology, and technical assistance and training. It also invests in sustainable institutions that deliver credit and business management services. In 2003 alone, ADF’s investments supported nearly 90,000 small enterprises.

Following are profiles of three ADF SME projects in Guinea – projects that have expanded economic opportunity for hundreds of families in some of Guinea’s poorest communities.

The Mechanics of Small Business Development: 
The Union Garage of Coleah (UGC) Project

A Better Future Looms for Rural Weavers: 
The Koumanci Weaving Group of Kollossi Project

Opening New Ground for Growth:
The Union of Agricultural Groups of Soumbalako (UGAS) Project