To help young entrepreneurs and business start-ups build connections and network with successful entrepreneurs, a networking series called Friday Friends was launched in the capital on Friday. The monthly series organised by Innovate Bhutan, an office under the Youth Development Fund, will host talk shows where successful entrepreneurs will share their stories. The series will also host international entrepreneurs.
With a primary focus on young entrepreneurs, Friday Friends will serve as a platform for individuals to come together, build connections, and foster collaboration.
The first episode of the networking series featured a Chilean tech entrepreneur, Diego Menchaca, who shared his entrepreneurial journey and insights on what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur.
Entrepreneurs in the country and representatives from several stakeholders like the Loden Foundation, UNDP, Druk Holding and Investments, Cottage and Small Industries, and business faculties from the Royal Thimphu College attended the first episode.
“From our past interactions with young entrepreneurs and start-ups, we realised that they need this kind of platform where they can build their network. So, the first reason behind starting Friday Friends was the need. Secondly, due to research and studies that indicated networking as a key to success by entrepreneurs,” said Kinley Tenzin, the chief of social enterprises of Innovate Bhutan.
The initiative was welcomed by entrepreneurs in the country.
“Attending and participating in events where successful entrepreneurs talk about their stories definitely gives us motivation. From today’s guest speaker, I learned to never give up and to be persistent,” said Kinley Wangmo, an entrepreneur.
“Networking is very important in business. In the past, there were more events and activities like this compared to today. When entrepreneurs come and share their stories and challenges, which we can resonate with, it gives us encouragement. So, I feel that it is very important to have such events,” said Jigme Tenzin, another entrepreneur.
The networking series is expected to cover topics ranging from investments to entrepreneurship, STEM and sustainability, and policy and climate among others.
The series sponsored by UNICEF, will be held on the third Friday of every month.
Tashi Dekar
Edited by Sherub Dorji
