Business Development Services: A Framework for Analysis

The purpose of this study is to provide an overview of current practices in the provision of business development services (BDS) to small and microentrepreneurs in developing countries. The document is meant to serve as a resource for Bank staff and other development practitioners who play a role in evaluating proposals and designing, implementing, and evaluating projects which target the microenterprise sector. By business development services, the authors refer to services such as training, technology transfer, marketing assistance, business advice, mentoring, and information, which are aimed at helping small and microentrepreneurs improve the performance of their businesses.