Since its inception in 2018, Darussalam Enterprise (DARe)’s Micro Bootcamp programme (MBC) has so far empowered 400 local enterprises to embark on their entrepreneurial journeys by providing training in business fundamentals, the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB) and DARe said.
According to a DARe press release, MBC serves as the initial phase of a three-stage, fully-sponsored business bootcamp programme offered by DARe for early-stage businesses which include those in the ideation stage, covering the basic requirements to start, run, and grow a business over three to four weeks.
An appreciation night was hosted on September 29 at Mulia Hotel for the more than 100 participants from MBC’s cycles 10 to 18. The event facilitated networking and introduced graduates to the DARe business community, providing them access to a host of opportunities to further their development.
In attendance were DARe board members the Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Economy) at the Ministry of Finance and Economy (MoFE) Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Khairuddin bin Haji Abdul Hamid, and, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) Hajah Tutiaty binti Haji Abdul Wahab.
BEDB and DARe Acting CEO, Daniel Leong, commended the graduates in his opening remarks for their initiative and drive in starting their own enterprises that contribute to the local economy by creating jobs and capturing local spending. “The journey does not end with your graduation from this programme: it merely marks the beginning of a new phase in your entrepreneurial endeavours,” said Daniel.
“We will continue to provide you guidance on accessing resources, securing funding, and navigating the complexities of the business world.”
DARe’s Assistant Officer at Programme Management Nurul Zainal explained that they would be able to tailor support to graduates depending on their intent and nature of business. The latter two stages of the DARe’s business bootcamp – divided into Pre-Accelerate and Accelerate – focuses on startups looking to leverage technology or innovation to create scalable and high-growth business models. “There have been many MBC graduates that have progressed into Accelerate, but even for businesses with more traditional models, there are many avenues for DARe to continue to support you in your journey,” she said.
These include affordable office space at iCentre, the Kontena Park incubation programme for F&B businesses, and factory space along with the Bruneian Made store and shelves for local producers. Businesses also gain access to relationship managers, co-matching grants, a mentoring network, and Industry Business Academy (IBA) classes.
DARe also regularly hosts and facilitates participation in business events and expos, inside and outside the country. Nurul added that MBC is now conducted in two formats: a three-week version with classes in the morning and afternoon, typically participated by those pursuing business full-time, and a four-week version with classes held in the evening for those with existing commitments. Facilitators will conduct these classes in both English and Malay for ease of participants understanding.
During the appreciation night, six participants from MBC pitched their products and services: Senimerge, Brucare, Hazimah Roslan Enterprise, Dweyentek, ASG Farm ville, and KiwiCorp.
