The ENFA-OI program has established a Regional Consultation Framework (CDCR) bringing together Support and Assistance Organizations (SAOs) for MSMEs and Start-ups from both the public and private sectors across the five member states of the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC). This framework promotes:

• Their practices in supporting businesses;

• Mutual contributions in terms of best practices, policy and strategy development, experiences, tools, and service offerings for MSMEs and start-ups;

• The initiation of concrete joint actions to increase the competitiveness of MSMEs and start-ups, particularly to strengthen their presence in intra-regional and international markets;

• The development of best practices in green, blue, and circular solutions.

To facilitate collaboration among the stakeholders within this consultation framework and to support the dissemination of tools and useful documents to businesses and SAOs (MSMEs & Start-ups), a digital platform has been developed. To ensure its sustainability beyond the ENFA-OI program, the platform is hosted by the COMESA Business Council (CBC), based on a mutual letter of commitment between the IOC and the CBC.

Through a member-only collaborative module, the ENFA-OI Platform supports the work of the CDCR. Its members consist of the SAOs for MSMEs and Start-ups from the 5 IOC member countries.

The public section of the ENFA-OI Platform is freely accessible. It provides MSMEs and start-ups with free access to a toolbox, including resources produced by the ENFA-OI program or from other trusted sources. It also shares updates and news related to the CDCR and opportunities available to MSMEs and start-ups in the region.

Specific Objectives of the Platform:

I. Strengthening Regional Business Networks and Knowledge Sharing

• The COMESA Business Council (CBC) is a COMESA institution that aims to connect and facilitate dialogue between the business sector, other interest groups, and the institutions of the Common Market.

• The platform allows businesses to connect with SAOs for MSMEs and Start-ups across the 5 IOC member states.

• It serves as a regional knowledge hub, enabling entrepreneurs and SMEs to access resources, share best practices, and grow their professional network.

II. Facilitating Investment and Funding Opportunities

• The ENFA-OI platform hosted by CBC enhances access to investment and funding opportunities for businesses.

• It promotes digital financial inclusion by giving MSMEs and start-ups access to critical information on available financial products, investment opportunities, and eligibility criteria.

• The platform acts as a bridge between entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers, creating a supportive ecosystem for business growth in the Indian Ocean and COMESA region.

III. Providing a Platform for Regular Consultation

• Facilitate consultations with the private sector, including MSMEs and start-ups.

• Facilitate discussions across various groups, such as CBC workgroup meetings.

IV. Accelerating the Digital Transformation of Business Support Services

• The CDCR aligns with the CBC’s digital transformation strategy, modernizing business support services.

• It supports the following CBC digital services:

  • Facilitation of business, trade, and partnerships;

  • Advocacy for an improved business environment;

  • Communication and member engagement.

The ENFA-OI Platform represents a major step forward in strengthening economic integration and business support in the Indian Ocean and the COMESA region.