Helping SME’s Overcome Obstacles
Korpodeko Incentive Program
It is no secret that the Small and Medium Enterprises, (SME), in Curaçao account for a substantial chunk of our economy. But statistics show that 75-80% of SME’s fail within their first two years, meaning that they fail to meet their operational obligations, including tax and social benefits payments. Korpodeko is launching its own incentive program for its clients, offering small and medium sized companies six new and funded pathways to develop their weaknesses into strengths in order to increase their chances for success. TEXT BY FARAH DIBAH AYOUBI
Support for SME’s
There’s a myriad of theories about the many obstacles facing SME’s, but there seems to be a common consensus among experts that if an SME manages to overcome its first two years in business, its chances for survival increase substantially. According to Chesron Isidora, Managing Director of Korpodeko, many of the common struggles of SME’s are attributable to ‘minor’ issues that can be overcome with the right guidance. Korpodeko, - although some-
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CURAÇAO BUSINESS
times mistakenly regarded as a financier of large ventures, - is currently amping-up efforts to boost its SME portfolio by adding a new layer to its new and affordable loans: incentive programs. Every SME entrepreneur with a loan at Korpodeko, can gain access to (mostly) free support in 6 different areas of discipline. By helping the entrepreneur with a loan, and supporting it with expertise and guidance, Korpodeko strives to empower small entrepreneurs, build a stronger SME base and help strengthen the local economy.
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Six Incentive Programs
The Korpodeko Incentive Program, (KIP), consists of six products and programs that target the most pressing issues that most startup entrepreneurs face. Most of these programs are either free to join, or upon obtaining a loan at Korpodeko can choose to join. Each of the KIP products is offered in close partnership with one or more organizations with ample expertise in their field to create synergy and efficiency. The partners make it possible to offer highly qualified people to mentor and support the SME’s without breaking the bank. 1. KIP SIB - Sustainability in Business This program is conducted with the partnership and support of BPM, (Bedrijven Platform Milieu). It is suited for companies who want to obtain official certification and improve their competitive advantage on the market by positioning themselves as a sustainable company. By having a mentor who can guide you through the certification process, this
