The Sustainable Enterprise Project (SEP) is an initiative for the development of microenterprises, jointly developed by the PKSF and the World Bank aims to increase the implementation of eco-friendly practices by a chosen group of microbusinesses (MEs). The project aims to increase adoption of environment friendly practices, knowledge of workers on personal safety and reduce health hazard, and promotion of alternative use of workshop wastage for better environmental management. The project has been carried out in Dholaikhal, Keraniganj & Dhaka South City Corporation.
– Establish Environment Friendly Model Workshops– In the Dholaikhal and Keraniganj clusters, 30 environmentally friendly model workshops has been built.
– Environment club- Two environment clubs have been established that have organized 15 diverse activities to raise awareness about maintaining safe and clean workshop environments.
– Common Service Loan- BASTOB facilitated the growth of 17 micro-enterprises and improved their workshop environments by granting Common Service Loans (CSLs). This financial aid allows them to acquire advanced equipment like CNC machines, VMCs, and other automation technologies.
– Sanitation- To ensure the well-being of both male and female workers within the cluster, BASTOB has constructed three separate hygienic toilet facilities in Shuvadda, Bonogram, and Kholamora.
– Branding- To enhance marketing and branding for our microentrepreneurs, a dedicated website has been launched at www.basmachinery.com. Additionally, Facebook pages (10) have been created to showcase the high quality of their machinery products and establish strong brand recognition.
– Capacity Building– BASTOB has conducted 70 comprehensive training and seminars to enhance capacity. These programs covered diverse areas like environmental certification, accounts & business management, and utilizing modern machinery.
Monir Hossen, a quintessential struggler, came to Narinda, Old Dhaka, with dreams of making a name for himself. He had a passion for machinery and tools, and knew that this was his calling. Despite the hardships, he never let go of his dreams. Monir first ventured into the business of making dice, but unfortunately, the business couldn’t see the light of success. Undeterred by this initial failure, he pivoted his focus towards manufacturing different types of machinery spare parts.
Previously, his workshop efficiently handled a diverse workorder of 2000 pcs of Pinium, and earned the revenue of 275,000 BDT with 7% of profit margin. The Covid-19 pandemic hit businesses hard across the globe and Habib Engineering Workshop was no exception. Monir found himself in need of substantial capital to buy a new Vertical Milling machine. However, his fortunes took a significant turn for the better after receiving the common service loan from BASTOB, which proved to be a game-changer for his business. Now he efficiently handles 3000 pcs of dice or more, and his revenue has surged to an impressive 364,000 BDT. His profit margin has surged to an impressive 10%, representing a commendable 3% increase.
Over time, Habib Engineering Workshop grew, supplying spare parts primarily to mills and factories. The workshop now houses five lathe machines, three VMCs, and two milling machines, operated by a team of 15 dedicated workers and three trainees. As part of the loan agreement and SEP team guidance, Monir committed to improving his workshop’s conditions. The SEP team ensured Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), safe drinking water, a first aid box, fire safety measures, and a waste bin were available in his workshop. With technical assistance from the SEP team, he introduced ventilation, a proper storage system, and ensured appropriate wiring.
SEP also provided Monir with opportunities to attend several workshops and training programs. These included Environmental certification training, Use of Modern Machineries, Accounts and Business Management Training, a Workshop with Relevant Authorities, and a Workshop on Uncertified Chemical Use. Monir seized these opportunities to enhance his skills and knowledge, stating,
His story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for others, proving that with hard work and the right opportunities, anyone can rise from the ashes and achieve great success.
