Bhutan is an undeveloped Himalayan country east of Nepal and north of India. King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, along with the country's leaders, espouses the doctrine of Gross National Happiness, a philosophy that puts people and the environment before economic development. The country's strong Buddhist beliefs and geographic isolation have created a unique business environment that contrasts greatly with that of the West.
Approximately one million Bhutanese live in Bhutan, and one half of those are under 18 years of age. 80% of the population live in rural areas; 50% live more than one day's walk from a motorable road; and 20% live in urban areas that are experiencing rapidly increasing immigration from rural areas. In 2000, per capita income was $656USD. Bhutan is heavily dependent on foreign assistance, especially India.
Eco-tourism and hydroelectric power are its main industries, and the new Tala Hydroelectric Plant will increase GDP greatly in 2006-2007. Bhutan's 5-Year Plan emphasizes preserving Bhutan's traditional culture, values, and the environment while addressing socio-economic development; and its focus areas are health, education, communication, roads, and hydroelectric power. It is important to note that the Bhutanese speak English thanks to the vision of the king's grandfather.
Arkansas Global Programs provided the 18-month Bhutan Small Businesswomen Development Project (BSBDP). Key partners included the Arkansas Small Business Development Center, the National Organization of Women Business Owners, and the Bhutan Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BCCI). In 2004 seven Bhutanese entrepreneurs received small business training at UALR and elsewhere in Little Rock, benefited from business internships, and participated in other business training experiences.
They had home stays with American families, and a culture program and social program. In summer 2004 and spring 2005, U.S. consultants provided additional small business development training and consultation through workshops and other activities for participants and entrepreneurs in Bhutan.
Arkansas Global Programs will attempt to build on BSBDP success through projects such as the U.S. Bhutan Resource & Development Project (USBRDP); and the Bringing Bhutan to Arkansas Program (BBAP), a development program for Arkansas teachers.
BSBDP was sponsored by the U.S. Department of State.