ILO Start and Improve Your Business
An internationally recognised programme suite that supports entrepreneurs from generating a business idea to starting, improving, and expanding a business.
About the SIYB Programme
The Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) programme is one of the most widely used business training programmes in the world. Developed by the International Labour Organization (ILO), it is a suite of four packages that supports entrepreneurs at different stages of business development, from the first business idea to planning for expansion.
At Afifen Business Consult, the programme is delivered by certified facilitators with practical experience applying it to the realities of Nigerian entrepreneurs and SMEs.
Generate Your Business Idea
For: Aspiring entrepreneurs who have not yet identified a viable business idea.
GYB helps participants look at their skills, interests, and opportunities to identify a business idea with real potential before investing time and money.
Start Your Business
For: New entrepreneurs who are ready to plan and set up their businesses properly.
SYB guides participants through developing a practical business plan covering marketing, operations, finance, and management, so they start with a clear plan rather than guesswork.
Improve Your Business
For: Existing business owners who want to improve how their business runs.
IYB covers key business management areas including marketing, costing, buying, stock control, record keeping, and business planning. It helps owners identify what is holding the business back and fix it properly.
Expand Your Business
For: Established business owners who are ready to expand.
EYB covers business strategy, market expansion, financial management, and the systems a growing business needs, so expansion is planned rather than accidental.
Who It Is For
Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Anyone with a business idea or exploring the possibility of starting a business. GYB helps you test the idea, and SYB helps you plan and start properly.
GYB → SYBExisting Business Owners
Entrepreneurs already running a business who want to improve operations, increase profit, and fix what is holding the business back.
IYBEstablished Business Owners
Business owners with an established enterprise who are ready to expand, reach new markets, and build a clear plan for growth.
EYBWhat You Will Learn
How to test whether a business idea can work before investing in it
How to develop a practical business plan you can use and present to a bank
How to market your business and win customers
How to cost and price your products and manage your money
How to manage stock, keep records, and run daily operations
How to plan for business growth and expansion
How to identify what is holding your business back and fix it
How It Is Delivered
Online
The programme is available online through live facilitated sessions. Participants take part in practical exercises and develop tools for their own businesses in a guided online environment.
In Person
In person delivery is available through workshop sessions for cohorts and through partnerships with organisations.
Both delivery modes follow the same internationally certified curriculum and are facilitated by certified SIYB trainers.
Ready to Find Your Starting Point?
Not sure which SIYB package is right for your business? Get in touch and we will help you find the right starting point.