Shell LiveWIRE programmes support entrepreneurs and early-stage enterprises with refining their business plan, developing pitching skills and more. After completing the programme, these graduates are better equipped to launch a business and grow their customer base. For two entrepreneurs in Malaysia, these new customers included Shell itself.

Tipois Honey produces a wide-range of organic honey products, such as soap, honey sticks, and more. Uncle Green specialises in growing pesticide-free vegetables via hydroponics, which use less water than traditional soil gardening methods. And both of these products are available for purchase at a Shell Select Store in Lutong.

“Overall it is extremely rewarding to see the entrepreneurs grow to be able to deliver value to our businesses in Malaysia,” said Alvin Chia, social performance advisor. “It’s most fulfilling to witness growth in character and resilience in the entrepreneurs after they’ve gone through the programme’s mentoring and coaching.”

The founders of Tipois Honey and Uncle Green connected with Shell Retail representatives during a business matching exercise between LiveWIRE entrepreneurs and Shell Retail. All entrepreneurs who have completed the LiveWIRE Malaysia programme are invited to participate in this exercise, giving them a chance to a win a new customer and giving Shell business the chance to support local small businesses.

Chia said that the partnership between LiveWIRE and Shell businesses in Malaysia goes a long way in contributing to the local economy.

“By involving Shell businesses early, especially in strategic conversations, LiveWIRE is able to leverage Shell’s operations to deliver long-term benefit to the entrepreneurs,” he said. “I’m really excited to see what other pockets of the business will pick this up now to build more successes for our LiveWIRE entrepreneurs.”

To learn more about Shell LiveWIRE Malaysia, please visit their website.