Past projects > EQUAL 2: Minority business diaspora interchange
GLE oneLondon ran the EQUAL 2 project from October 2006 to September 2007. The project provided advice and support on international trade to black, asian and minority ethnic (BAME) business owners in UK and helps to build capacity of its partners and other BAME networks in UK and in Europe.
Two trade development visits helped put training into practice - France (February 2007) and the Netherlands (June 2007).
The project was supported by the European Union (European Social Fund under the EQUAL 2 programme).
The aim of the project was to support and develop the objectives and work of the EQUAL Minority Business Diaspora Project in relation to international market opportunities and the development of international business co-operation links in relevant countries and markets for target BAME business owners.
International business support
A dedicated international trade business adviser met with businesses to help develop their international market strategies and offer unique experience and personal links around the world.
We also helped BAME businesses by linking them to mainstream services and support such as UKTI, SITPRO and others to support international business development.
GLE oneLondon ran one international trade mission to Paris in February 2007, another to the Netherlands in June 2007, alongside relevant business events in the UK. Targeted countries reflected key sectoral and market priorities, and built on existing relationships to reinforce the market strengths of the diasporas including:
- Trade missions for 10 to 15 companies
- Pre- and post missions, workshops and training to prepare businesses and ensure they could make the most of contacts and networks.
For more information, please contact: ketevan.m@gle.co.uk
Capacity building
As part of the programme, GLE oneLondon supported Development Partnership intermediary agencies, and networks to develop their capacity for delivery of initial advice and support in relation to international market development.
For more information, please contact ketevan.m@gle.co.uk
Read the final report
Bridging the Cross-Cultural Divide: November 2007
This report explores the demand for international trade support
to early stage businesses through examination of the project Bridging the Cross-Cultural Divide, funded by EQUAL. The project not only provided support to SMEs but also helped our partners, representing such communities
as Latin American, Bangladeshi, African, Caribbean, Chinese and
Vietnamese to build their understanding of international trade. The findings from this report are now being used as a model for the future.
Case study
The Minority Business Diaspora Interchange project was supported by the European Union (European Social Fund under the EQUAL 2 programme).
The programme was delivered in partnership with:
Bangladesh- British Chamber of Commerce
Latin American Development Association
Chinese Takeaway Association
Vietnamese Business Action
Netherlands: Zwarte Zaken Vrouwen Nederland
France: CEFIR - Centre d'Education et de Formation Interculturel Rencontre
Italy: Tolomeo Studi e Ricerche s.r.l.
