JERUSALEM, September 20, 2010 (WAFA)- The U.S. Consulate General in Jerusalem sponsored the September 19-20 visit of American small business expert Steven Strauss, who conducted a series of meetings and workshops with Palestinian small business owners, representatives of local and international companies, and young entrepreneurs from throughout the West Bank. 

Mr. Strauss is an internationally-recognized expert on small businesses, the author of the best-selling book, The Small Business Bible, and a columnist for USA Today’s Ask an Expert column.

During his two-day program, Mr. Strauss discussed general entrepreneurship strategies with participants in the “Fostering Women Entrepreneurs in Nablus” (FWEN) project at Tomorrow’s Youth Organization in Nablus and met with prominent Nablus-based business leaders, with whom he shared his strategies and recommendations for fostering global entrepreneurship and small business development.  In Ramallah, he led workshops for youth and women entrepreneurs including representatives of the Business Women Forum’s (BWF), Young Entrepreneurs Palestine (YEP), and Palestinian Business Women’s Association (ASALA).

Mr. Strauss also conducted a workshop with the executive council and senior leadership of the Palestinian Development and Investment Company (PADICO), as well as executives from their holding companies.  The workshop focused on current trends in entrepreneurship, the creation of a “Made in Palestine” brand, and the important role e-commerce can play in ensuring the vitality of Palestinian economic growth.  At the conclusion of his program, Mr. Strauss noted, 'I've been very impressed with the level of commitment of individuals and organization to promoting small business and entrepreneurship. There is tremendous opportunity here and I am pleased to see the enthusiasm and eagerness to take advantage of them.'

 Mr. Strauss’ visit is one of several academic exchange and professional development programs hosted by the U.S. Consulate General throughout the year.  These programs, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, promote dialogue and encourage mutual understanding between Americans and Palestinians in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip.