Abstract

Entrepreneurs in developing countries often have a poor skills record, which inhibits micro and small business (MSB) growth. Training programmes are needed for MSBs to upgrade their skills level, especially during growth. A qualitative study done by Perks and Smith (2008) has revealed certain focus areas that should be included in MSB training programmes. These focus areas was based on the growth problems experienced by MSBs. If overcoming growth problems, growth of MSBs can be stimulated. Successful entrepreneurs are not necessarily academically inclined and often learn in a more dynamic, non-linear environment therefore attention should be paid to the content of the focused training programmes to assist MSBs in stimulating small business growth. The intention of this study is to identify the course content of the various types of focused training programmes to stimulate MSB growth in developing countries. A comprehensive desktop study was done, by which secondary sources were consulted to gather an idea of what the content of these training programmes should be. The evaluation of the content analysis was based on the information obtained from the qualitative study done by Perks and Smith (2008) and desktop study on content within each of the identified focus areas. The course content of eight types of training programmes focusing on financial, operations, people, marketing, investment and general management, as well as computer and other training areas will be indicated. The value of the research lies in the fact that the course content of the focus training programmes for stimulating MSB growth in developing countries will be outlined. Other studies have attempted to identify training programmes but the content thereof was not necessarily linked to stimulating business growth of MSBs.