Propelling Inclusive Business to New Heights

Inclusive businesses offer commercially viable goods, services, and livelihoods to individuals at the base of pyramid. By integrating them into the value chain as suppliers, distributors, retailers, or customers. 
IBs address challenges related to income inequality and decent work. 

The Superstar Inclusive Business Competition in Cambodia, initiated by Oxfam in partnership with government agencies like the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI) and Khmer Enterprise, plays a crucial role in promoting inclusive business (IB) models and supporting the development of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the country. The competition aims to accelerate the impact of IBs in Cambodia by promoting best practices and providing financial support and advisory services to selected “Superstars.”

Launched on October 10, 2023, the competition was open to enterprises certified as IBs by MISTI or SMEs in Oxfam’s and Khmer Enterprise’s SME Development programs. The selection process involved a three-month application period, evaluation, shortlisting, and final pitching sessions. The winners of the competition were honored with the title of “Superstars” at the Superstar Inclusive Business Competition: Pitching and Awarding Ceremony held in Phnom Penh on December 18, 2023.

The first winner, Solar Green Energy, founded by Ms. Thida Kheav, focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and providing clean energy for farmers. Their Solar Irrigation Service, which received a $20,000 grant, aims to expand solar irrigation capacity and establish a solar water draining system. This initiative will benefit 300 farmers by providing year-round access to water for cultivation and preventing flooding.

The second winner, MUCH Mobile Healthcare, founded by Ms. Phirum Dyphan, is centered around professional home healthcare in Cambodia. They received a $15,000 grant to provide caregiving training to women in rural areas, offering them job opportunities as nurses or caregivers. This initiative not only improves the quality of life for the elderly but also reduces the burden of unpaid care on women.

H.E. Dr. Nhim Khemara, Permanent Secretary of States of MISTI, emphasizes the positive impact of IB models on society and the economy, leading to sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction. He expresses the commitment of MISTI to support the vision of Cambodia’s transformation into a high-income and robust economy, with employment, equity, efficiency, and sustainability as the key objectives. The promotion of IB, including the implementation of the Superstar Inclusive Business Competition, is an integral part of achieving these goals.