The sample size of the impact study could be modified:

• A sample of 5 CEFE participants for each region (= in total 15 for the three project regions) is relatively small. A sample of 20 CEFE participants per region would be desirable(=60 in total for the three project regions)

• A sample of 15 businesses involved in Business Development Services (BDS) (=45 for three regions) is acceptable. However increasing the sample size to 20 businesses per region (=60 in total for the three project regions) would provide a slightly better basis of information.
• However, projects with large target groups will always rely on qualitative methods and not be in a position to draw statistically proven quantitative conclusions. The resources used for monitoring must be balanced with the actual project activities and the intended outcomes.

Impact on employment and income could be assessed more in detail:

• The questionnaire should not only ask if more employment has been generated, but give exact figures for the businesses involved in the impact study.

• Secondary indicators should be included: less credit and more own funds, more equipment, more family expenses; business secured by legal business registration and updated tax declaration, better or own premises.

Potential consequences:

The impact study would need to be extended from 6 weeks to two months. It depends on the scope of the project if this would be a reasonable balance between project activities and monitoring activities.