Boas vindas a todos! This is a project I’ve been wanting to do for a long time and I am so excited that this day has finally arrived.
Originally I wanted to open a physical hub for all creatives and artisans in Italy. I’ve always had a deep level of fascination and respect for small businesses, artisans and creatives. There is a certain risk when you venture into the unknown, a fear of not knowing whether your products, your art, or your business baby will be loved or even liked by others. I admire and take a lot of inspiration from the courage of putting yourself out there. Opening a business is always a big challenge and it needs to be celebrated.
Although this project has taken a different direction to what I first imagined, the core purpose has always been the same. It is a thrill to finally share it with you.
What is Pequenas Empresas Portugal?
PEP will start as an online directory showcasing all and only small businesses in Portugal. This is going to be free and anyone who wishes can donate something but this is optional.
Why is it free?
As a business owner myself, I understand and I have felt the impact of having to shut down my business (and only a few months after a total renovation of our office, sigh!). Potential deals were put on hold, clients paused all activity and business slowed to a halt. It was quite disheartening at first. Like many of you, I went through these fears and doubts about the economy, but after putting years of work into my real estate and relocation business this was not the time to throw in the towel.
In the past months I’ve been inspired by the generosity of people around Portugal trying to help each other out in every way possible.
PEP is my way to contribute to this beautiful small business community in my adopted country.
My mission for this website, with help from a group of amazing volunteers, is to enable everyone to add their business as fast and easily as possible.
How will it evolve in the future?
Rome wasn’t built in a day! So watch this space. The sky is the limit and my dream is for this community to connect during this crisis and rise together afterwards.
I’ll try my best to discover new businesses around Portugal, and try new products made and produced by small businesses in Portugal. I will start with the Algarve, where I am based and where I co-founded Vivo in Portogallo, a boutique real estate agency and relocation agency.
On the blog here I’ll also interview business owners and showcase their unique businesses. Expect to hear about how they started, why they do what they do and some tips on how to open a business (despite the current circumstances).
Please take a deep dive around the website. This is a place to connect – so help make it a two-way conversation. Feel free to send any suggestions or ideas.
Your thoughts are very welcome and appreciated to help grow and support this network!
For now, I wish you a fantastic day and if you haven’t signed up already click here to add your amazing business, sign up to the newsletter and follow us on IG and FB.
Ciao,
Susie
