A training workshop on “Managing Small Business Associations” has been organized in Champasack Province from 14 to 16 June 2006 at the meeting hall of the Department of Commerce. The training is jointly organized by the Small and Medium Enterprise Promotion and Development Office (SMEPDO), ILO, SNV, Champasack Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Provincial Department of Industry and Handicrafts. The training has altogether 19 participants representing eight business associations/groups of the province. The participants are mainly leaders of business associations and groups. The main objective of the workshop is to build the capacity of these leaders in better managing their business associations. The specific objectives are:

• Improved understanding amongst leaders and members of business groups and associations on the different managerial aspects of association building
• Improved understanding amongst leaders and members of business groups and associations on the different services that business associations can offer to their members
• Improved networking and knowledge sharing between the various business groups and associations in Champasack province as well as between the associations and the relevant public authorities.