Africa-Press – Eswatini. A renewed sense of focus and possibility swept through Eswatini’s entrepreneurial community this month as U.S. incubation expert Erik Azulay spent a week engaging with start-ups, mentors, and business leaders across the country.
Hosted by the Small Enterprise Development Company (SEDCO), the visit brought together entrepreneurs at different stages of their journeys, creating space for reflection, learning, and practical growth. From conference halls to workshop rooms, conversations centred on one key message: building a strong business begins long before funding arrives.
During engagements, including the Global Cooperation and Training Framework conference hosted by the United States Embassy and Taiwan, Azulay challenged entrepreneurs to rethink their priorities. He emphasized that while funding is often seen as the ultimate goal, preparation, training, and clarity of purpose are what determine long-term success.
At the American Corner in Manzini, ideas flowed freely as local incubators and entrepreneurs exchanged knowledge through hands-on sessions. Participants explored ways to strengthen business models, refine strategies, and build ventures that can withstand real-world challenges. The sessions were marked by active participation, collaboration, and a shared desire to grow.
Beyond group discussions, Azulay worked closely with startups through one-on-one coaching sessions, guiding founders as they sharpened their ideas and aligned their goals with practical realities. Meetings with government representatives, incubation experts, and trainers further highlighted the need for stronger partnerships and coordinated support systems within the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
His visit also extended beyond boardrooms, offering moments of cultural connection as he experienced Eswatini’s traditions, including the vibrant Buganu festival. These interactions deepened his understanding of the local context in which businesses operate.
For SEDCO and the broader business community, the week was more than a series of engagements—it was a reminder that sustainable entrepreneurship is built on preparation, collaboration, and continuous learning. As Eswatini’s start-up landscape continues to evolve, the impact of such engagements is expected to shape a more resilient and future-ready generation of entrepreneurs.
