The Samtse Entrepreneur Program recently provided a dynamic platform for emerging entrepreneurs to present their latest innovations, attracting a diverse audience of investors, business leaders, and aspiring innovators. The event highlighted a broad spectrum of cutting-edge products designed to revolutionize industries such as technology, fashion, sustainable agriculture, and healthcare.
A talented group of entrepreneurs showcased products that offer inventive solutions to everyday challenges. This year’s program, recognized as a vital incubator for talent across various age groups, facilitated connections between entrepreneurs and potential partners, while also providing access to essential funding. The event underscored the program’s role in offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and resources necessary to transform creative ideas into successful businesses.
“This year’s lineup is one of our most impressive yet,” remarked an event attendee. “The startups here demonstrate remarkable potential to make significant impacts in their respective fields, reflecting the drive and creativity of our local innovators.”
A significant highlight was the presentation of a new food processing unit in Samtse Gewog, led by Wangchuk Lepcha, the Gup of Samtse Gewog. Supported by a Small Development Project (SDP) and the Agriculture Department, the initiative aims to enhance local production of various food items, including chilli paste (Ezay), a variety of pickles, and multiple types of flour.
“The project has been instrumental in enabling our community to produce a range of products such as chilli paste, mango and lemon pickles, ginger powder, and various flours,” explained Wangchuk Lepcha. However, he pointed out ongoing market challenges, particularly unfavorable pricing that threatens the sustainability of these ventures.
“While we are successfully producing these products, the current market prices are not favorable, leading to discouragement among our entrepreneurs,” said Lepcha. “Moreover, limited local consumption restricts our sales growth. It is crucial that government support extends to both producers and consumers to ensure profitability and continued motivation for our entrepreneurs.”
The initiative involves nine groups collaborating to produce these goods, with one group led by Moti Rai from Chankthagang facing particular hurdles. Despite launching their products this year, the group struggles with limited sales and logistical issues due to the factory’s remote location, 20 kilometers from Samtse’s main town.
“Our products are primarily sold to local vendors, managed by an accountant without our direct involvement in the accounts,” shared Moti Rai. The group plans to address these challenges in an upcoming meeting in December, aiming to improve sales strategies and financial management.
Jung Singh Rai, another key figure from Chankthagang, recounted the journey to establishing their product line. “Before, we couldn’t sell our products, but with the help of the Agricultural Officer, we launched our products on National Day. We are grateful for the opportunity,” he said. The entrepreneurs have also benefited from training sessions on product development and machinery operation, enhancing their production capabilities.
Despite the training and variety of products, including Mealie Rice (Gayza Rey), wheat flour, and millet flour, sales remain below expectations. “Even though our most popular items are well-received, overall sales are still limited,” explained Jung Singh Rai. The distance from the main market poses significant logistical challenges, further hindering their ability to reach a broader customer base.
Nevertheless, the entrepreneurs express gratitude for the opportunities provided by the pickle factory in Chankthagang Gewog. “We are learning and making progress, but additional support is crucial for us to improve sales and expand our businesses,” Rai emphasized.
The Samtse Entrepreneur Program continues to be a beacon for local innovators, offering the necessary support and visibility to propel their ventures forward. As these entrepreneurs navigate market challenges, the hope remains that continued government assistance and community engagement will pave the way for their success and contribute to the region’s economic growth.
