Empowerment of SMEs
HIK Network facilitated the procurement and supply of high-quality business equipment, including energy-efficient appliances, food processing machines, and power backup solutions, enabling SMEs to operate efficiently and scale their businesses.
Case Details
Clients: Avsi Foundation
Start Day: 13/04/2022
Tags: Community growth, Business
Project Duration: 3 years
Beneficiaries: 350 entrepreneurs
Let’s Work Together for Development
Call us directly, submit a sample or email us!
The Story
Limited access to reliable and affordable business equipment hinders growth and productivity therefore, HIK Network is facilitating the procurement and supply of high-quality business equipment, including energy-efficient appliances, food processing machines, and power backup solutions, enabling SMEs to operate efficiently and scale their businesses.
HIK Network stepped in to bridge this gap by supplying a range of high-quality, energy-efficient equipment tailored to the needs of SMEs. By providing modern machinery, solar-powered solutions, and financing options, we enabled small businesses to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase profitability.
What did HIK Network do?
This case study demonstrates how HIK Network is empowering small businesses in Northern Uganda by providing access to modern, sustainable equipment.
Conducted a survey to identify SMEs’ most urgent equipment needs in food processing, agribusiness, and retail sectors, and collaborated with manufacturers and suppliers to source durable, high-performance equipment.
Installed energy-efficient equipment for small retailers, agro-processors, bakeries, and catering businesses, ensuring sustainability and reduced operational costs.
Provided hands-on training program aiming to educate business owners and staff on equipment usage, maintenance, and troubleshooting, as well as conduct workshops on business scaling, operational efficiency, and renewable energy integration.
Collaborated with microfinance institutions to provide flexible financing options for SMEs, offering equipment acquisition without significant upfront costs, and offering after-sales support.
Data Analysis Chart
| Metric | Before Implementation | After Implementation | Improvement (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment-Related Downtime | 40% (due to unreliable tools) | 5% (with modern equipment) | 87.5% Reduction |
| Business Operating Costs (per month) | $500 | $250 | 50% Reduction |
| Business Output/Production Capacity | 60% (due to inefficiencies) | 95% (with new equipment) | 58% Increase |
| Energy Expenses | $200 (diesel generators) | $50 (solar-powered systems) | 75% Reduction |
| SME Loan Access | Low | 70% approval rate | New Initiative |
The Results
Our involvement in supporting the foundation merger extended over a comprehensive three-year period, encompassing activities ranging from pre-merger due diligence to post-closing strategy.
Customer Reviews of the Case
"Before working with HIK Network, we struggled with frequent breakdowns and high electricity costs. Now, our business runs smoothly with the new maize milling machine, and we’ve been able to double our production. We are making more profit and even expanding our operations. The training also helped us learn how to properly maintain the equipment, ensuring it lasts longer. This support has been a game-changer for SMEs like ours in Agoro."
