Distance-Based Business Development Services
This research theme examines the state of practice of distance-based business development services. Recent survey data is shared that illustrates the growing use of these strategies to serve both new and existing clientele.
Publications
Distance Learning and the Changing Face of Business Development Services. A long-time challenge facing microenterprise programs is how to reach larger numbers of entrepreneurs efficiently despite the distance to a program office. In order to bridge the distance gap, more and more practitioners are providing distance based business development services. This “scan of practice” explores practitioners’ use of a range of strategies—from phone and web-based webinar technology to podcasts and social networking.
Focused on Growth. This FIELD publication discusses the range of business development products offered by microenterprise organizations looking to scale-up services. Distance learning is discussed as part of those product offerings.
Other Resources
Download MicroMentor’s tipsheet on Money and Time Saving Technologies for both organizations and microenterprise clients.
Microenterprise practitioner, Coastal Enterprises, has engaged long-term in distance-based training, browse their online offerings.
Beth’s Blog: How Networked Nonprofits Are Using Social Media to Power Change
This blog offers several posts on return on investment and tools for measurement, along with a wealth of information on social media and nonprofits.
The Bridgespan Group: “Getting Social Media Right: a Short Guide for Nonprofit Organizations”
ACENet-sponsored website Ohio Foodshed focuses on providing food sector business content and has a video resource bank suited towards food entrepreneurs. Sample of the organization’s introductory business content is available online for download.
Webinars
The How-To’s of Distance-Based Microenterprise Training
This webinar shares FIELD’s findings and speaks to pioneer practitioners of these strategies—Marita Fairchild from Coastal Enterprises in Maine and Jinell Smithmyer from MicroMentor. Download MP3 version or Powerpoint or Webinar Recording.
