Asian Credit Fund (ACF) and the Association of Family Businesses have completed the pilot phase of the ALAU educational project, a significant milestone that paves the way for further success in supporting small and micro-businesses in the country’s regions.
From October to December 2024, more than 1,100 entrepreneurs from 10 regions of Kazakhstan accessed educational programs on key aspects of running a business, including: business modelling, financial literacy, cash gap management, niche selection and strategic business development.
The program was implemented in two formats – online and offline, and in two languages – Russian and Kazakh, ensuring maximum coverage of participants.
Key results of the project:
- 8 expert meetings with leading business specialists were held.
- Telegram and YouTube channels for training and experience sharing were created.
- Individual consultations for entrepreneurs were organised.
- More than 1,000 participants received online training.
- More than 500 entrepreneurs took part in face-to-face meetings.
One key area of the project was the creation of entrepreneurial communities that facilitate knowledge sharing, partner search, and local business development. The ACF launched business clubs and centers for interaction between entrepreneurs, which will become platforms for networking, mentoring, and educational initiatives.
‘The development of small and micro-businesses in the regions is the basis for sustainable economic growth. We are happy to see that the ALAU project has helped entrepreneurs gain valuable knowledge and find support for further development. This is an important step towards strengthening the business environment and increasing economic activity. Training and counseling support are powerful tools that help entrepreneurs to grow and confidently develop their business,’ said Zarina Dzhekebekova, manager of the program.
‘We see huge potential in small business, especially in the regions. We aim to provide information and create an ecosystem where entrepreneurs can grow, co-operate, and find support. The ALAU project is an important step in this direction,’ emphasized Yana Iskakova, Head of the Family Business Association
Plans for 2025
Given the successful launch of the pilot phase, the ALAU program will be expanded in 2025. The focus is on the development of regional business communities and improving financial literacy of entrepreneurs. Additionally, in 2025, the 100 Soft Loans program will be launched to support promising business initiatives in the regions. This initiative will help entrepreneurs obtain financing on favorable terms to develop their projects.
Join the project!
Do you want to become a part of the ALAU program?
Сontact Zarina Dzhekebekova
Email: info@acfund.kz
We invite you to join the ‘ALAU’ movement – together, we will foster a conducive environment for business development in Kazakhstan!