Amcham governor Maura Fallon’s idea for an entrepreneurs’ group helps overseas firms establish in Hong Kong

The Amcham Entrepreneurs' Group was the branchild of Amcham governor Maura Fallon, president of Fallon International Limited and the group's chairman. She said the formation of the group was both timely and appropriate, especially in light of the enormous contribution small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) make to the Hong Kong economy. 

"I saw an opportunity to further assist and promote the overwhelming number of SMEs here, especially those established by expatriates with a long-term commitment to Hong Kong," Ms Fallon said.

With some 1.4 million people (60 per cent) employed by around 300,000 SMEs - representing 98 per cent of all registered businesses - Ms Fallon recognised an opportunity in Hong Kong for a dedicated group, able to provide networking opportunities, information sharing, problem-solving and partnership assistance in Hong Kong's fiercely competitive business environment.

"Establishing a business in a foreign city, and the resulting success or failure, depends to a great extent on sharing advice and networking with others in similar areas of business," Ms Fallon said. "The Entrepreneurs' Group is able to assist fledgling entrepreneurs by drawing on relevant areas of expertise and resources currently available via other successful Amcham members."

Membership of the Amcham Entrepreneurs' Group to date includes people who have established SMEs in the areas of public relations, branding, accounting and taxation, computer services, entertainment, the textiles industry, architecture, venture capital, and trade and development.

"We have been overwhelmed by the positive response to this group under the Amcham umbrella, and I am delighted to say that attendance at the launch event, with guest speaker Henry Tang Ying-yen, Secretary for Commerce, Industry and Technology, exceeded all expectations," Ms Fallon said.

"The Entrepreneurs Group will not only help companies be more effective, but will also preserve the driving entrepreneurial spirit that has made Hong Kong strong. Its aim is to promote sharing of business development experience and expertise among our members by building a strong network of entrepreneurs and other professionals. This will be achieved through a number of events and activities which allow our members to meet and share practical business and technical know-how that will help the businesses grow."

Activities will be offered on several levels, including seminars, lunch speeches and a mentor programme. Topics will range from how to start your own business, to being ready for the economic upturn. "We will also be active in presenting public interest and policy initiatives that will focus on affecting public policy or in getting or developing services needed by entrepreneurs," Ms Fallon said.

Related link:
Amcham www.amcham.org.hk