In Cambodia, a large share of the population earns a living in the informal economy, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas. Many women, in particular, rely on home-based activities such as hairdressing, tailoring, or food preparation to support their families.
These small-scale enterprises often operate without formal registration, access to credit, or reliable infrastructure — challenges that make it difficult to sustain or expand their work.
To address this gap, Action Education / Aide et Action supports livelihoods by providing practical equipment to informal workers through its CO-SAVED project, which is co-funded by the EU.
Equipping Women, Expanding Opportunities
“From 18 to 20 October 2025, we delivered and handed over materials to six informal workers in Kampot and Kep,” explained Rathana Sao, Field Operations Officer.
She added: “For example, Ms. Pov Sok received a hair steamer and a hair dryer in Tuk Chhou District, Kampot Province.” These essential tools will enable her to expand her range of beauty services.
By prioritising individuals who demonstrate both skill and commitment but have limited access to capital, we ensure that support reaches those most likely to benefit and sustain their activities over time.
Turning Skills into Income: Tools for Growth
Providing simple yet essential tools can have a transformative effect. With the right equipment, small informal businesses are better placed to:
- Offer more professional and competitive services
- Increase their income
- Serve more clients
- Build greater economic resilience
By supporting informal workers through in-kind materials rather than loans or grants, Action Education / Aide et Action delivers cost-effective and sustainable interventions that strengthen household incomes and local economies.
Our strategy is to support local initiatives, ensuring that communities themselves drive change rather than having solutions imposed from outside. Through microenterprise support, we empower individuals and groups with the motivation to sustain their own projects. This not only fosters local ownership, commitment, and accountability but also ensures that the benefits are sustainable.
Together, let’s build economic resilience.
