There are several ways a business can expand, from simple methods to more complex ones. Expansion should, however, be done strategically to avoid hiccups. Rapid expansion may expose the business to other risks, for example liquidation risk. Most of the time benefits that come with growing and owning a business encourage people to set it up, and some do so with expectation of opportunities and later get threats. Anitha Teta, a 23-year-old entrepreneur and founder of Hashtag Store believes that setting up a business with no recognition in Rwanda means risking a lot. “One of the biggest challenges that we meet is competition from big companies and brands that already have recognition and a certain audience. It is hard to gain clients in such an environment,” she says. Teta said that her business has been running for three years now, but most of her clients are from her family and friends. She added that inadequate capital and equipment to keep her business running has also been a challenge. “I would ask the concerned authorities to set up institutions that invest in growing businesses and ease access to financial services by growing businesses.” Teta said. Claver Nshuti, a 21-year-old entrepreneur and co-founder of Agakufi Store says,” Some of the challenges we meet as owners of a growing business is operating online only since most Rwandans don’t trust online shops let alone trust a small business they might even not know about. What I would ask from the government is that they advise young entrepreneurs who have good ideas instead of ignoring them. They always urge us to use the opportunities we get, so they should help us develop our ideas.” However, growing a business doesn’t come with challenges only. Claver also said that the Agakufi store has helped him in his daily life and taught him how to be independent, especially financially. Djalia Mboni, a young entrepreneur and founder of Chactory Restaurant said that she has gained experience regarding food quality and how best it can be availed to society. “I’ve also been able to identify how the business world works and the challenges that one can encounter in the process,” Djalia added. She also said that she always felt the urge to start up a business of her own and for the love she had for fast food she wouldn’t think of a better idea. Pamela Agahozo, a young entrepreneur and founder of creative gifts shop said that she got more benefits than challenges in the process. “I’ve gained creative freedom and personal satisfaction, I’ve learnt more about creativity in businesses, I’ve fulfilled my dreams because I discovered my purpose and built a business around it,” she said. She also said that she created the business with a purpose of building a unique brand and identity that aligns with her values, and to her benefit it is going as she planned. Jane Kankwanzi, a successful business owner and founder of Maca’s Hardware, advises small businesses owners to be patient with what they do and aim at making profit. She said that,” When you set up a business you expect to make loss or profit. That is why all business owners work hard to make profit.” She also said that the government should help small businesses by funding them and creating loans and grants for them to overcome their challenges.
