(Phnom Penh): Khmer Enterprise (KE) organized a handover ceremony to provide technical assistance packages to selected startups and SMEs. This event was presided over by Chhieng Vanmunin, Delegate of Royal Government in charge as CEO of KE. The technical assistance packages aim to equip startups and SMEs with tailored support to overcome business challenges, expand to new markets, and upgrade their capacity to engage with investors. The 3 programs are jointly funded by KE, Australia through Cambodia Australia Partnership for Resilient Economic Development (CAPRED), Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). These programs have been implemented for more than 2 years with co-implementation by KE, CAPRED and SwissContact Cambodia.
Chhieng Vanmunin said, “As part of our targeted approach to strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem, Khmer Enterprise collaborates with diverse stakeholders to deliver practical and timely support. Our goal is to enhance market access and build the capacity through technical assistance for startups and SMEs to scale their operations and attract investment.”
Through the Food Innovation Fund, and in collaboration with CAPRED, Khmer Enterprise provides technical assistance to support startups and SMEs in the food sector by developing new products, complying with food safety standards, and expanding their market reach via access to a range of food and technology services, including food processing, technology solutions, market information, branding, and packaging. In addition, Khmer Enterprise supports startups and SMEs in strengthening their investment readiness through its investment due diligence service. This service helps businesses determine their valuation, identify appropriate capital structures for expansion, and uncover key areas for improvement in business management. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between investors and investees by reducing the time, effort, and risks involved in the investment process.
Khmer Enterprise also works to strengthen Cambodia’s investment ecosystem through the Enhancing Entrepreneurial Ecosystem and Investments (3Ei) Project, co-funded by SDC and KOICA, and co-implemented with SwissContact.
Christian Disler, Deputy Director of SDC in Cambodia expressed Switzerland’s commitment to strengthen Cambodia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, boost business performance, and attract investment to its vibrant start-up scene. “Our partnership with Khmer Enterprise, through the 3Ei initiative, is central to realizing these goals. Small and growing businesses in Cambodia can play a crucial role in creating decent jobs and fostering positive societal change.”, he said.
Che Jungwon, Deputy Country Director of KOICA Cambodia said, “KOICA has been supporting Cambodia’s startups and SMEs across diverse sectors and regions-from urban tech startups to rural youth in agriculture, from digital innovation to traditional industries. Among several projects, through the 3Ei Project, KOICA could help them become investment-ready and connect them with impact investors. We are proud to work with KE, SDC, and Swisscontact to turn strategic support into tangible outcomes for inclusive and sustainable growth.”
Through this project, support is provided to startups and SMEs to enhance their investment readiness, focusing on key areas such as financial management, sales and marketing, business strategy, and governance upgrades.
Daniel Nugraha, Country Director of SwissContact said, ““Through 3Ei, we are strengthening local startups and SMEs, helping them become more attractive to investors who care about both commercial returns and positive social and environmental impact.”
Known as a national platform, Khmer Enterprise connects the supply side — startups and SMEs — with the demand side, including market operators and investors. This strategic role aims to strengthen local businesses, reduce import dependency, and promote export growth, contributing to a more resilient and competitive entrepreneurial ecosystem.
=FRESH NEWS
