In order to build sustainable livelihoods for themselves and their families, residents of rural communities in developing countries need to become entrepreneurs.

The major problem in these communities is not just the lack of business skills; it is also the lack of opportunities. There are few jobs available, which leaves people to either continue with traditional occupations, which are often financially inadequate, or become an entrepreneur and start new a new business for themselves.

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I used to roll my eyes at the word "empowerment". I've seen "empowerment" used so many times in different contexts, that it seemed like a meaningless buzzword. Most people have a vague idea of what empowerment means; but specific questions- like how empowerment differs from self-reliance, or if empowerment is a process or a goal- are tough. So, what does the Community Empowerment Network actually mean by "empowerment"? How does that definition influence our actions?

Empowerment is the process that allows somebody to gain the skills and knowledge they need to find success in the world. Empowerment is a process and can vary from learning a useful skill to completely shifting attitudes and behavior. CEN works to empower people to the point where they become self-reliant. When people are self-reliant, they use their own judgments, skills, and resources to solve a problem, rather than depend on someone else for help. Self-reliance is a state of being; empowerment is the process that gets people there.

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