SDG Value Chain Innovation Challenge (Laos)

Micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) form the backbone of Lao PDR’s economy, accounting for over 80% of employment. Yet, many MSMEs face challenges such as limited access to finance, weak business practices, inadequate infrastructure, and restricted market access.

To address these barriers, UNDP Lao PDR is launching the SDG Value Chain Innovative Challenge, a youth-centered programme running from July 2025 to March 2026. The challenge will pilot a localized adaptation of the Growing with Your Business (GYB) methodology in Lao PDR to strengthen MSMEs by providing individualized, on-site technical assistance delivered by young advisors like you.

Objectives

• Support MSMEs, cooperatives and producer groups to strengthen core business functions through tailored, on-site assistance from youth advisors, enhancing their competitiveness and market access.
• Build a pipeline of young SDG value chain advisors, equipping young professionals with practical experience in enterprise development, advisory support, and value chain facilitation.

Aims

• Through this dual approach, the programme aims to strengthen local MSMEs while cultivating the next generation of inclusive value chain leaders in Lao PDR.

Benefits

• This is your chance to be trained, mentored, and deployed as one of the 3 Young business Advisors. You will:
  • Receive 3 on-site intensive trainings and weekly virtual mentoring sessions on Grow with Your Business (GYB) methodology: where you learn the crucial value chain development tool, how to conduct firm diagnostics, design improvement plans, and facilitate business partnerships.
  • Have an opportunity to pilot applying the GYB methodology, working closely with 2-3 businesses to help improve their performance and market access.
  • Receive up to USD 6,000 to support your technical advisory

Expected Output

• Targeted MSMEs, producer groups, and cooperatives will enhance their capacity to manage and grow resilient, market-oriented businesses, aligned with sustainable value chains.
• Youth advisors will be equipped with practical skills in enterprise support through the SDG Value Chain methodology.

Target Groups

• General:
  • Young Lao professional aged 25-35, with a bachelor degree in business administration or management, agriculture economy or related fields
  • Available to work with 2-3 targeted businesses for at least 3 days per week from July 2025 – March 2026.
  • Currently based and available to work for 8 months in Vientiane Capital/Province or Houaphanh Province or Oudomxay Province.
  • Fluent in Lao and English.
  • Women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from ethnic groups will be given priority consideration.
• Work Experience:
  • At least two years of working experience with MSMEs on business, agriculture, community-based tourism, cooperative development, or value chain support.
  • Previous work experience and expertise in handicraft (textile), agriculture and ecotourism sectors are an advantage
  • Those with prior involvement in MSME support, local entrepreneurship, or value chain facilitation are especially encouraged to apply.
• Functional Competencies:
  • Advanced computer skills including Microsoft Office and web-based applications.
  • Excellent communication and facilitation skills.
  • Strong and proven research and analytical skills.
  • Ability to find innovative and feasible solutions to support companies in the implementation of changes required by the improvement plan

For more information, visit UNDP.