Management of Fisherfolk Microenterprises

Manuals and Guides - BOBP/MAG/19

Management of Fisherfolk Microenterprises
A manual for training of trainers

by
V. Muthu,
P.S.A.K. Padam,
D. Bhatnagar
Consultants

Executing Agency: FOOD AND AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION OF THE UNITED NATIONS

BAY OF BENGAL PROGRAMME Madras, India 1993

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© FAO 2004

ABSTRACT

The Bay of Bengal Programme for Small-scale Fisheries Development (BOBP) has, in its work with small-scale fishing communities, seen a need for alternative employment opportunities in coastal areas where fish resources are heavily exploited. The creation of small village businesses is one strategy for individual upliftment as well as strengthening village-level economic development.

Experience has shown that many very small businesses or microenterprises fail due to lack of managerial skills. The idea of imparting basic business skills through experienced field workers of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) was thought of as a means to provide already existing as well as future microenterprises with on-the-spot managerial advice. This practical manual on small business development is the outcome of this belief.

1 Identification of small business ideas
2 Preliminary feasibility of business ideas
3 Financial feasibility
4 Appropriate ownership form
5 Implementing a business idea

SECTION II: Running a Business

6 Marketing
7 Production/Manufacturing
8 Purchasing/Buying
9 Stocking
10 Pricing
11 Selling
12 Distribution
13 Basic accounting
14 Bookkeeping
15 Working capital
16 Break-even analysis and best product mix
17 Banking & Finance
18 Risk & Insurance
APPENDIX : Accounting practices

SECTION III: The Fieldworker Consultant

19 Role of the consultant
20 Observing a business