Subcomponent 1.2: Testing the introduction of complementary business support services for SEP beneficiaries This sub-component will support the piloting and evaluation of a comprehensive package of support services for beneficiaries of AzSEP as a way to increase the likelihood of their success through business profitability and sustainability over time. To this end, this sub-component will invest in complementary services that could turn livelihood activities for successful SEP participants into growing businesses, as a possible graduation pathway. Specifically, the subcomponent will finance advisory services to (i) provide regular mentoring visits and advice during the first six months of business operation focusing on relevant business skills and practices, including market development and intelligence, as well as management capacity for individuals who want to create micro-enterprises; (ii) facilitate the establishment of social enterprises and social cooperatives through advisory services and small grants; (iii) provide services to acquire required licenses and permits; (iv) offer financial literacy training promote access to small business development services (such as the Small Business Development Agency); and vi) improve the linkages with subsidized credit programs (for example, those run by the Ministry of Agriculture).
