In these times of high global uncertainty, mentoring can act as a critical tool for helping firms to overcome a range of barriers and to succeed. By increasing the growth and sustainability of MSMEs, these actors can reduce global poverty and unemployment.

Yet there is a lack of consensus on what defines effective mentoring, evidence on good practices, and actionable guidance. Through an extensive literature review and interviews with mentoring programs, funders, and supporters, we have collected insights to address these gaps. These insights will help the reader to:

• Understand the difference between mentoring and commonly associated terms (e.g. coaching, advising)
• Explore different formats and modalities for mentoring
• Learn how to design an effective mentoring program, from matching mentors and mentees all the way to graduation and follow up
• Implement key success factors at each stage of the mentoring program

We hope this report not only assists you in learning and practice, but also contributes to a growing recognition of the importance of mentoring to MSMEs.

We invite you to read the report and contribute to this interesting and vital conversation. Please contact us to share your thoughts.

Photo ©Stuart Freedman/Argidius Foundation