Following the pilot phase in 2024 and the launch of the second cohort in May 2025, IMNEt has now completed two full cycles of mentorship in Battambang and Siem Reap. Over the course of the program, a dedicated pool of local mentors was cultivated and equipped with advanced coaching and mentoring skills, enabling them to deliver meaningful guidance to women-led micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).
IMNEt is designed as a 5-month program that equips participants with essential mentoring and coaching skills, including active listening, effective questioning, stage-based support, and building awareness around gender and inclusion. The program includes monthly mentor-to-mentor and mentee-to-mentee online check-ins and follows a structured procedure from open application to training, matching, and closing.
The second cohort introduced several enhancements based on lessons learned, including structured onboarding for mentees, group mentoring sessions prior to formal pairings, and advanced modules on coaching skills and gender sensitivity.
The impact of Cohort 2 reflects the program’s growing influence on Cambodia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. In Siem Reap, 41 participants attended the closing event. In Battambang, 44 participants joined. Cohort members in Siem Reap included 15 mentors (10 women) and 13 mentees (12 women). In Battambang, the cohort included 10 mentors (1 woman) and 9 mentees (6 women).
Across both locations, women represented 44 percent of mentors and 73 percent of mentees. All mentees reported that mentoring was helpful, supportive, and beneficial, with 100 percent noting improved confidence in themselves and their businesses, and 65 percent expressing interest in supporting other MSMEs in the future. On the mentor side, 100 percent reported overall satisfaction with their training, confidence in their ability to support MSMEs, motivation to continue mentoring, and proactive steps in navigating power dynamics. Ninety-nine percent deepened their understanding of mentorship value, expanded networks, or increased topic expertise.
The closing events featured mentorship showcases, interactive practice sessions, and networking opportunities designed to sustain momentum beyond the program. Participants shared testimonials and insights through gallery walks and reflection activities, highlighting both successes and challenges in building a robust mentorship culture. Mentor Training Completion Certificates were awarded to mentors in recognition of their commitment, and an endline survey captured feedback to inform future programming. The events concluded with a celebration of achievements and a call to action for continued collaboration among ecosystem actors.
As IMNEt Cohort 2 ends, the program reaffirms its commitment to expanding opportunities for women entrepreneurs and strengthening local mentorship capacity. Partners remain focused on sustaining engagement through alumni networks, recognition initiatives, and collaborative efforts that ensure mentorship becomes a cornerstone of Cambodia’s entrepreneurial growth. IMNEt continues to open doors, foster inclusion, and build a stronger, more connected ecosystem for the future.
The Inclusive Mentoring Network for Entrepreneurs (IMNEt) is funded by the Sasakawa Peace Foundation (SPF) and co-implemented by SPF, Impact Hub Phnom Penh, and Swisscontact Cambodia through its 3Ei initiative.