Most often we get so used to doing things alone as entrepreneurs and try so hard to tackle every aspect of the business ourselves whilst playing diverse roles all in attempt to ensure the business survives.
However as a small business owner, one way to help you ease the pressure on yourself is by identifying the right associations and groups to join. Being a part of these association keeps you abreast with information in your industry, get knowledge on valuable tools for your business. gain information and advise from experts and learn from other entrepreneurs
Today we share with you three associations that will help you grow your network and also get you started with a lot of experiences, information and valuable knowledge. The last time we checked your network is your networth!
1.The Ghana National Chamber of Commerce
The Ghana National Chamber of commerce is an association of business owners, firms, and industries in Ghana having interests in every aspect of the private sector. It represents the business community’s voice, and it is fully committed to playing a leading role in advancing Ghana’s economy. Whilst being a member of the chamber comes with a small price tag, it comes with a lot of benefits especially if you are into manufacturing and production. Some of the advantages of being part of the chamber includes getting access to international opportunities, workshops, exhibitons, discounts and gaining access to the global market. Also the possibility of gaining customers at the chamber is high as there may be members who will be in need of your products and services. The Chamber meets every second Wednesday of the month to educate members on a particular business topic and this is also another great way to network and market your product and services. During these meetings they give a member the opportunity to market to over 100 of attendees at a small fee. There is also a Whatsapp group where members can communicate and market their products and services. If you also need more information on the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) then the GNCC is the place to be. To learn more about the Ghana National Chamber of commerce join and how to click here.
2. The Ghana Enterprises Agency
The Ghana Enterprises Agency formerly NBSSI is a non-profit public sector organisation under the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Presidential Special Initiatives and came into being in 1985. The aim of this association is to promote the growth and development of micro and small enterprises. Notable amongst some of the business support they offer to businesses especially female owned businesses is the Womens Summit which is held almost every year that gives women owned businesses the opportunity to exhibit , pitch and also attend various workshops and seminars. To get updates on programs that can support you in your entrepreneurship journey from the GEA, follow their page on Instagram to get updates by clicking here
3. The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI)
The Association of Ghana Industries or the AGI, is another small business association to belong to if you are interested in growing your business. All registered enterprises involved in manufacturing or providing services to the manufacturing sector are eligible to join. Associate membership is available to non-profit organizations. The AGI has about 1200 members who work in agro-processing (food and beverages), agri-business, pharmaceuticals, electronics and electrical, telecommunications, information technology, utilities, service industries, transportation, construction, textiles, and garments. It is another good association for your business if you want to stay current with what’s going on in your industry. To learn more about how to become a member click here.
As a small business you may not have to belong to all three of these associations , however it certainly helps in times when you need to leverage on network , experience and other online materials from others to grow your business. Such associations give you quick access to most of the information you need to get a head start on whatever you want to do for your business.
Do you know of any other associations that will be helpful to a small business owner,please share with us in the comment section.
Mary Dickson is a versatile professional with over a decade of experience driving innovation at the
intersection of technology, marketing, and female empowerment.
With a background in marketing she worked with Nalo Solutions Limited for 13 years leading the HR
department for 8 years and moving on to lead the marketing team for 5 years.
