Conference named Tomorrow starts today: Joint support for responsible and sustainable small businesses was organized by MFI Alter Modus in Science and Technology Park of Montenegro. The event gathered key actors from public, private and international sector with the aim of encouraging dialogue about further support to development of micro and small businesses.
The conference was opened by Ana Kentera, the Chief Executive Officer of MFI Alter Modus, Anđela Gajević, acting General Director of Directorate for Improvement of Economy Competitiveness at the Ministry of Economic Development, Sava Laketić, acting Director of Tax Administration of Montenegro and Remon Zakaria, Head of Montenegro for the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). All of them emphasized that strengthening the entrepreneurial sector is crucial for long-term economic sustainability of Montenegro.
During the panel discussion, the emphasis was on importance of cooperation among the institutions, financial sector and entrepreneurs. It was concluded that a functional system of support requires better availability of information, their integration and simplified procedures. It was also highlighted that financial support must be accompanied by education and understanding local context.
The focus was specifically on the significance of direct communication with small businesses whose specific needs often remain unrecognized within the general models of support. It was stressed out that it is necessary to develop a special programme for natural persons engaged in independent business activities, that are registered in other registers, so that they could get involved in formal financial flows and improve their businesses. The entrepreneurs said that what makes real difference are flexibility, availability of advice and practical assistance in all development phases. Development of digital platform which would integrate all the key information and tools for support for entrepreneurs in Montenegro was suggested.
The conference was accompanied by a lecture dedicated to the development of human potential, with an emphasis on the importance of personal and professional skills for business growth and sustainability.
This conference is a strong reminder that the future of entrepreneurship depends on our readiness to cooperate, learn from each other and act responsibly.