The Development of Small-Scale Food Processing Enterprises.

Abstract

The development of small-scale food processing enterprises creates employment opportunities and generates income particularly for poor people in rural areas. This paper describes the advantages and benefits of small-scale food processing and the challenges facing small entrepreneurs, enterprise development agencies and Governments. The challenges range from markets and business skills, consumer perceptions, the social and political climate, access to information and access to credit. The paper then describes the approach and activities of Intermediate Technology in helping to overcome these challenges and develop small-scale food processing enterprises. The activities assist the entrepreneur to make informed decisions and achieve quality, profit and sustainability. The principal activities are: training, publications, technical inquiries, technology development and technology transfer.