DILI, 02 March 2026 (TATOLI) – The Institute for Business Development Support (IADE) is conducting a business plan training program for 22 Timorese nationals who previously worked in Australia and South Korea, aiming to strengthen their entrepreneurial skills and support their transition into business owners.
The training, held at IADE’s hall and running until 6 March, was organized by the Secretaria de Estado da Formação Profissional e Emprego (SEFOPE) in partnership with IADE. The initiative is financially supported by the European Union in cooperation with the International Labour Organization (ILO).
IADE Executive Director Filomeno Belo said the program is designed to enhance participants’ knowledge and skills in entrepreneurship. The training focuses on business plan development, marketing strategies, financial management, and access to capital.
“The training helps participants refine their business ideas and develop structured business plans. Many workers return from abroad with savings but without a clear investment strategy. It is important to equip them with the necessary skills so they can become employers and create job opportunities for others,” Belo told TATOLI in Bebora, Dili.
He added that similar training sessions are being conducted in other municipalities. Last week, a comparable program was held in Baucau for 16 former workers who had returned from Australia.
SEFOPE Director-General Carlito Cabral emphasized the importance of the initiative in supporting returnees to develop viable business ideas.
He explained that overseas labor mobility programs aim not only to provide workers with income and skills but also to enable them to return home with savings and experience that can be transformed into sustainable businesses.
According to IADE data, most returning workers invest in small enterprises, particularly in trade, horticulture, and livestock production, including animal husbandry and aquaculture.
Former worker Madalena Guterres, who worked in Australia from 2012 to 2025, expressed gratitude to the Government for the initiative. She said she was able to save enough to build a house and purchase land but had yet to establish a clear business plan.
“I am participating in this training with the hope that it will help me develop a concrete business idea,” she said.
Journalist: Ivonia da Silva
Editor: Isaura Lemos de Deus
Translation: Camilio de Sousa
